The Ultimate Everyday Watch Under $500 Vs The Best Under $5000 - Rolex Explorer & Seiko SARB033 Duel

How does the best "everyday" automatic wrist watch under $500 compare to one of the best at ten times that price? What are the differences? Advantages? What do you get for that extra money? In response one of these frequently asked questions, I decided pit two favourite watches of the channel against each other to try and understand.
How will the legendary and classically styled Seiko SARB0033 compete against the iconic luxury level Rolex Explorer 114270? Feel free to keep your own scores along for a bit of extra fun and please share your results and observations in the comments.
To view my video on the history of the Rolex Explorer, click here:
• The Only Watch You'll ...
To watch my 5 likes and hates for the Seiko SARB033, click here:
• 2 Years With The Seiko...
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[@kjeldpedersen666]

Hi TGV A brilliant idea for a comparison! I wouldn’t doubt that these watches represent the most excellent quality in their respective price range. And the Seiko gets a little help by being a bit more luxurious feeling than usual from the brand (-in this price range); and the Rolex being a bit more low key than what is expected- the scenery is set for a fair comparison. As far as it can be done, that is... For me it all comes down to who you are as a person - and as a horological interested individual. It’s not only a question of how much money you have. It’s also a question of how much money you are willing to spend on this hobby. I really like both watches. Personally I’m probably placed somewhere in between - being an Omega man, mostly - but also within that brand you can find better or worse choices relative to the money you spend, and relative to the quality too... Really a good test, Tristano. I really appreciate your non snobbery attitude and objective insight. Keep up the good work👍

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Kjeld for sharing that. Excellent points, I expected nothing else. Aaaah yes an Omega man, totally makes sense. Best regards, TGV

[@mr.edmiston6725]

Kjeld Pedersen qqq"

[@DarylChangs]

The Urban Gentry I plan on getting an Explorer down the line but in the meantime am wondering if I should get the Sarb033. Do you you think I should get it or hold out for the explorer as are similar in some ways?

[@toolongforyoutoread6]

The Explorer is the better watch in every way but I would rather buy the SARB, an SKX, a trip to Europe, a trip to Central/South America, and several dinners at fine restaurants when I return home. Seems like a more adventurous way to spend $5000-$6000.

[@mikedru2912]

Bacchus Leto e Exactly what I thought too

[@jpham5422]

Fuk yea watchmen

[@valueink]

People who can afford explorer, can afford all of the above as well.

[@anthonyb2990]

Nick K Some people save up and buy a 5 or 6k watch.

[@800mEric]

Burkinater 48 you can get it cheaper than that

[@kenfuller9907]

Fascinated by this. The explorer was my grail watch until I recently bought the sarb and my first thought was “I don’t need an explorer now”.

[@theurbangentry]

Fantastic, I can totally understand that. Enjoy you Sarb Ken! Best regards, TGV

[@kendivjak]

Another Ken here with exactly the same feeling. Yesterday, I even found myself in front of a non-AD Rolex specialist, wondering if I should go in and try my grail-watch (EXP 1 36) on. But then I looked down at my wrist, with the SARB on it, and thought: why the hell would I!

[@TheoJay615]

Same here. Bought a sarb, decided not to get an Explorer as a grail. If I do get an itch I can always save up, but for now, I've lost the explorer itch!

[@konliner9286]

Same here. Infact, I don't think I need a $1,000+ watch. The SARB is already good enough for me.

[@matejzeman7765]

I dont like the fact, that since I subscribed to you, Im always broke and with a new watch.

[@mriegger]

I wonder how many thousands of Sarbs were sold because of TGV. I bought a 033 and its wonderfully elegant and understated. Love the exhibition caseback.

[@theurbangentry]

So glad to hear, keep enjoying it and wear it with pride my friend. Thank you Mike, Best regards, TGV

[@Frankmejor]

I was thinking the same. If TGV were to get a commission for every sarb that was bought thanks to his Reviews, it would probably add up to grand seiko territory. How amazing would it be if seiko released a limited edition TGV sarb.

[@johandebondt5749]

@U-87 Agree on the Sarb... not on the SKX ;-)

[@AFCAWorldBodybuildingArchive]

The SARB's double layer case Looks a Million Dollar. Looking at 14:03 - if I was new to watches and I saw this comparison, I'd say the left one is the 4000$ watch and the right one the 400$ one. SARB's case is the star of the Show!

[@hogandori]

I had missed your comparison videos. This format really works for me for some reasons.

[@lennartalgra]

Hi TGV, Great comparison video. Thanks for using my photo at 19:39 (sarb on the left) Keep the good work coming!

[@wranglerstar]

TGV you did a great job on the intro. I really like your channel.

[@dh2838]

opinions and taste change when the money starts rolling in

[@theurbangentry]

Interesting point, a great concept for discussion in a video. Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@varanid9]

Yup. And, after you've had a chance to experience what the money brings in, opinions and taste change again.

[@GrandFishK]

Again with the brilliant intro! Fun duel, and great video. Keep 'em coming. ;-)

[@nelmangulaman]

Hi TGV Excellent comparison indeed! Since you're comparing $500 vs $5000 watches, I'd love to see a duel between SNKL23 VS SARB033! A $50 vs $500 watch duel!

[@CanuckWatchFriend]

My SARB033 is on it's way across the ocean as we speak. Can't wait!

[@theurbangentry]

Congrats Jason, I bet you will love it!!! Enjoy it, don't stalk the online tracking to hard ;-) Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@CanuckWatchFriend]

I only refresh once every 30 minutes or so now. Getting better ;) . Your videos sold me on this completely. As they did on the Orient Bambino. Both of which are being shipped as we speak. They will be my first Automatic timepieces. I can see this becoming a very expensive hobby very quickly. I've began searching for a Speed Master Michael Schumacher edition...

[@NapoleonsTriumph]

Hi, my name is Jason and I'm a .....

[@robpeters2296]

Jason Kernc how's your new piece ? is the bracelet brushed and polished thanks !

[@jacobtenace9327]

Great Video. Glad you decided to compare such similar watches from different price ranges. Would love to see more of these!

[@amirzargari4716]

A great comparison. Love the charming yet down to earth quality of your videos. Keep up the good work TGV.

[@MrScorpio118]

Amazing comparison and review, TGV. You are the only guy on KZbin that genuinely caters to watch-lovers of all strata. After watching your channel I have started looking at watches in a different light, rather than flashing, I cherish it dearly as a piece of art and history. Thank you for your insights.

[@tednugent8200]

Great video. Love the Predator intro!! Been enjoying your videos and just joined the FB group. I don't get people bagging on your accent or white gloves? I appreciate the gloves, Id be OCD over the fingerprints watching. Haha! I love your enthusiasm and knowledge of various watches. It's cool knowing you have Rolex in your collection but also seeing your enthusiasm and appreciation for Seiko. Myself, I am into Breitling, Hamilton, Seiko and some Tags. Once of my recent Breitlings is a Chronomat Yacht Timer. I'd love to see a video about that watch or those type watches in general. Keep up the good work. You are directly responsible for my latest purchase last night...a Glycine Combat Sub coming my way!

[@florentlago2236]

This is an awesome comparison, very bold to compare these 2 pieces but all the points raised are so well spot on!

[@EnriqueGiliOrtiz]

Duel videos are always cool. Thank you!

[@lespaullespaul]

Awesome comparison! I was a bit obsessed with brand & was only choosing among the more luxurious brands - but after watching your channels i completely change my mind. Thanks for bringing in these perspectives.

[@ZesPak]

Funny thing, with the pips and markers, the Seiko actually looks MORE like the classic "Explorer" than the new Explorer does. To me the Seiko looks a lot better tbh...

[@theurbangentry]

Very well observed!!! Now you mention it, totally. So true sir, thank you. Best regards, TGV

[@tejoHr]

Good idea. Didn't think you will rank it this high, especially since I haven't seen you talk about it for a while now. Glad you still like it as I do mine SARB035.

[@dcthomson12345]

Great episode featuring two of my favorite watches of the past couple of years.I wear both of these regularly and consider them on a par with one another, in terms of feature/function/asthetics. My uses for them are different, though. The Explorer is my "outdoor/holiday" watch. The Seiko is my dress watch, worn a lot at the office.

[@chrissimone7887]

Very clever comparison. It has compelled me to take a serious look at a Seiko I had previously never considered. Well done TGV!

[@calyee3558]

Surprisingly close! I would have never imagined a $500 vs $5,000 comparison would be even remotely entertaining. The SARB has done some amazing things with it's time and resources to gain a bit of a following. This review definitely puts the thought of "Do I really need an explorer" into question. the SARB033 can definitely be a temp until you save enough for the Explorer.. or maybe even just replace it in your arsenal! Great review as always! Thanks for the educational videos! It has definitely broadened my appreciation for a wrist watch as I was one of those "I have my phone for the time" kind of guys for the longest time until just a few months ago! Now I've been bitten by the bug and have since purchased 3 watches in a span of 2 months.. 2 autos and 1 chrono. That TGV/Seiko Tax really hurts the pockets! Looking at the SBDC055! What a beaut!!

[@rjmagoon560]

Thank you so much for posting this! I'm a huge fan of your videos and have been juggling ideas on which watch to get as a first watch. The Sarb033 has always been in consideration, but this amazing comparison has sealed the deal for me! ;-)

[@natebaumgartner9958]

TGV... I have always wondered at this very comparison. You've done it again! Thanks.

[@theurbangentry]

So glad to help Nate, thank you sir! Best regards, TGV

[@MrTeopantli]

another amazing video. I have to admit it has changed my perspective on both timepieces. I have a SARB that's been sitting in the box...brand new for a long time...kept hesitating...it's time to give it some action.

[@leonelsolorio7804]

I've already decided to get the Sarb033 as a 21st birthday gift for myself, my first automatic! All thanks to you, TGV!

[@theurbangentry]

A perfect 21st b-day watch, I could not think of anything better to mark such an occasion.. You have class sir. I hope you a wonderful birthday in advance. Thank you Leonel, Best regards, TGV

[@thepassionofthegoose5472]

Great choice. I'm looking to buy one soon (I'm 45). I own several luxury watches and was considering an Explorer, but since I am planning to use it on trips that involve dirt, water, and places where a Rolex might be taken right off my wrist I'm opting for the 033. Cheers and happy 21st.

[@barrysimmons5076]

Leonel Solorio

[@ArmandoFL]

How are you liking it ? Looking into buying it

[@Bluebair]

Im thinking of the same exact thing right now. Turn 21 in june...

[@steelheart4148]

I've only recently gotten into this hobby and appreciate the fact that you find great watches at all price points ranging from the modestly priced Seiko 5 to the ultra expensive Rolex. Thanks to your videos I've purchased a SARB 033.

[@jean-pierrebergeron1605]

Thanks for the member's watch collection section. Great idea. I'll definitely use it.

[@jeremybowman4681]

Buying an SKX009J1! Thank you from keeping me from buying a MVMT watch. The first video I saw of yours is the one that is titled "Before You Buy A Daniel Wellington, MVMT Or Michael Kors Watch - 6 Alternatives From $50 to $500 " and since then I have watched the majority of your videos. Thank you very, very much. You are great at what you do.

[@Lycosa]

Good one. I've had my Seiko SKX007K2 since 2015 April. Going strong.

[@jeremybowman4681]

Nice, thanks for sharing that, where did you buy it from? I'm worried about getting one with a bad misalignment, so I was thinking Long Island Watches, but it's like $40 cheaper on Amazon with good reviews.

[@Lycosa]

Yeeh Bezel mis-alignment. is fine. I bought my SKX from CreationWatches.

[@jeremybowman4681]

Ok, I'll check them out too. Thank you

[@scotthayes2652]

Love the predator intro music. Also great review video.

[@patrickhall_24]

Dear old Sarby. I have loved every minute with it since purchasing on your recommendation. Great video, Great battle :)

[@winstonyee1541]

Great comparison! Thanks again for the great videos TGV!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Winston, you are a gent for saying so. Best regards, TGV

[@airrun76]

Predator music.. Nice. Great touch TGV.

[@Mleko147]

Because of you I bought my SKX013 and Casio square, now SARB035 is on its way :) Thank you for saving me before mvmt watches ;)

[@Texas240]

Interesting and fair comparison, considering the price difference. The date complication is really valuable on an every day watch, even if it slightly upsets visual balance. It's nice to see the sapphire on the Seiko, also. Their lower end hardlex scuffs easily. As I was listening to the review, when value and "is it worth it" is mentioned, I kept thinking this would be a vastly different comparo if Archieluxury was doing it. Again, kudos for managing a reasonable camparo of 2 vastly different price points. Side note, I just saw Marc do a vid on skx007's that he's selling pre-equipped with a Strap Code solid link bracelet. In the vid, his wrist watch check showed off his personal Lion Shark.

[@ike5150]

Really great video! Thank you

[@miketindol1679]

Thank you for reviewing watches of this caliber. I am a watch enthusiast but also a working class family man. I only have one high end luxury watch but I still like to collect watches. Watches like this, the Glycine Sub and Hamilton khaki allow me to be a collector of fine watches... also, I like your new intro.

[@almcl9391]

Nice review & interesting comparison. Thanks

[@vincentradziecki7470]

I love your channel....Just bought my first Seiko 5 and I love it. I feel so much more educated on quality timepieces and for that I thank you!

[@apisDei]

Another excellent video of yours. Thank you.

[@Qqqqzzzzznnnt]

I've been wanting to pull the trigger on the sarb, and after watching this I just ordered it. Thanks again for the amazing videos, they have turned me onto this fun hobby. Cheers from Canada 🍻

[@KDL917]

I've been waiting for this duel for ages, so glad you did it!! My dilemma on what next piece to buy for 2018 has gotten worse, but in a good way. It's hard to keep the SARB033 down no matter what it's up against. Great video! P.S. Where's the London tube map?? Lol!

[@daniel62162]

Hey TGV. Bought my first Seiko thanks to your show. It's a Seiko SNZJ05. I always appreciate your impartial comments when you're comparing watches. Cheers from New Zealand

[@jeffmaverickcorpuz2872]

Nice comparison TGV! I always want and love the sarb033. I can’t wait to add it on my collection.

[@DeadReckoner]

Hey TGV, great work as always! How about a video comparing the Tudor BB 36 and the Explorer?

[@SinnerAndSaint]

Great comparison Tristano! I think they're both great watches. I own the SARB033 and other Rolexes but I think considering the price difference the Seiko would win my heart. It's just hard to beat at under 500 bucks. Little critic: Maybe you reveal the last score at the end of your explanations because this keeps the tension for the viewer until the end =) All the best from Germany!

[@PetreRodan]

TGV, your videos made me import a new SARB033 from Japan 2 years ago. I am extremely happy with this watch. Thank you for everything you do.

[@adibee88]

This was a brilliant and thorough comparison of two quality time pieces. I have always had a soft spot for the Explorer, but that Seiko SARB, looks excellent and is super stylish with the date complication as plus. Thanks again TGV!

[@Luna-ms2sh]

I've been binge watching your videos and they are such quality. You're such a great guy, so much class and I hope you keep doing what you're doing. After this video I'm pretty much sold on the SARB033. I'll make my dad buy it for me if I get into med school 😂😂😂 once again, thanks for all the videos and passion towards watches. You're one of a kind and I absolutely love your channel.

[@matekvantaliani3008]

What a great idea for comparison! I would never think that these two watches could be compared but the comparison really works. That blue squale is outstanding!

[@24hourstime]

Great video, well done! Both are amazing watches in their own right!

[@davidmichienzi101]

Great video TGV, both are fantasic watches. 👍

[@robertofisher]

Nice video. Good review.

[@22Phanatic]

Hi Tristano! Awesome Intro and Duel! I love both these watches I agree on the Price though , I’ve been looking at Explorers and they are bringing $5000 and up prices Which I believe I can buy from many other brands that have much more interesting complications! By the way got my Valor Nato Saturday and have been sporting it on my Sumo all weekend , very cool ! Thx

[@chrisauge6802]

Thanks for the review

[@fomakinaev8465]

Big like for the music in start!

[@eoinkirwan1635]

Really enjoy these videos. I'd love to see a comparison of the Seiko with similar Tudor and Omega models

[@OhadStolarz]

You inspired me to get myself a SARB. Keep up the good work!

[@steven3379]

Wasn't expecting this, good comparison! The Seiko did well. Thanks TGV! 👍👍

[@theurbangentry]

Always a pleasure, thank you Steven, Best regards, TGV

[@scurlcube]

Damn this is some sick video quality man!

[@JuanManuelVilmaux]

hey, I just subscribed to your channel, I'm getting up to speed with your videos, haha. What would be a good/trusted online website you would recommend to getting pre-owned watches? Thanks in advance

[@wika1984]

This is fantastic. I would like to see something like the tudor black bay vs sinn 556.

[@franzst.664]

That „Predator“ theme - love it ❤️

[@robertofisher]

UG, this was your best, period. honest and welcoming, stop snobbery. Fantastic review.

[@paulscanlan3386]

TGV, thanks for a great vid! I'm going to save up for a SARB for my birthday, lets hope they're still in stock somewhere come October. What brand of strap did you say the SARB is on? Thats such a beautiful shade of brown suede. Cheers!

[@allenwu122]

Beautiful video intro!! :)

[@Ruthlessbone]

I respect rolex but 10/10 I go for the sarb

[@theurbangentry]

I don't blame you! Thank you my friend, Best regards, TGV

[@brianhsin678]

i have both. 39MM explorer though, can't pull of the 36

[@jasonk4229]

What are your thoughts on the Hamilton Khaki Navy Sub Auto Chrono? Just a weeks back, your channel was a big reason I got into watches. Do not know how I came across this channel, but I am glad I did. Started off with a Orient Ray 2. Plan to step it up soon. Keep it up!

[@OguzhLP]

Watching it right now! I'm excited !!!

[@Tretboot5]

I'm going to get myself the Seiko for my upcoming birthday, such a beautiful watch! Nice video as always :)

[@DonCacomixtle]

Your intros are ----ing awesome!

[@Knightlore10]

I bought the Sarb035 because I wanted one watch in my collection with a white (egg shell) face. The beauty of these watches grow on you. When I first opened the box I thought I had made a mistake but I grew to love it. I fitted it out with a solid fine link solid brushed and polished bracelet to compliment the case but I only ever use it as a dress watch.

[@johandebondt5749]

Tristano, I know this is an old review, but I have to say, one of your best ever. Nonobstanding the obvious Rolls-Toyota comparison. Got a 033 and gave it to my 15yo son for Xmas, he's loving it, and so I can admire it every day.

[@JasonSimonSmith]

Great show !

[@FlyingPancreas]

Great vid! Recently bought a Fluco black suede strap for my Hamilton Intra-Matic (silver dial). Fantastic quality/value strap. Love Seiko in general. In the $5k range (new), I think Bremont is very exciting. For a very young brand, they’re managing to bang out impressively original but somehow still classic designs, with a cool combination of toughness and class. I think they’re the Rolex of the future, in terms of developing value.

[@PROEPEEFENCER]

Dear TGV! After watching this great video I went straight to Holben`s website for the strap on the SARB033, but there are two dark grey ones and a leather tan looking quite similar . Could you help me (and maybe many others) by telling wich one are you using in this video? Thank you, keep up the excellent work!

[@roelhoremans5887]

After months of pondering, finally ordered a SARB033 before prices start to skyrocket. Second watch this month after the NTH Näcken Modern Black that just came in. Affordable watches can offer so much fun. 😁 Both Explorer 1 & Pelagos cravings covered now. 😎

[@Francis0275]

Hi TGV, great review as always. I don't have the Rolex Exp (only the Submariner) but I do have the SARB033 and 017 and many other Seiko's diver's. But I understand and share all your comments. Regards from Brazil!!

[@Inkreptile]

This video makes wanna buy both of them You have really good taste when it comes to watches Have a great day

[@lauro195]

Link to the Seiko strap? Beautiful video as always

[@anangelisproduction2374]

Hi Urban Gentry , can you please do more videos on watches for the beginner collector in the £200 or less range . The amount of times I have seen a watch and as you have reviewed thought I would wait and see if you review any .Like the timex weekender and so on . Many thanks Nick U.K

[@benharvey2450]

Love the Predator Music in the intro!

[@aminai8581]

A great enjoyable show. Highly admire the idea of comparing two beauties which has beget a genuine thought provoking question whether it is worthwhile to spend 10 times

[@RickinHKG]

Great timeless video. Many sincere thanks. Afterwards, ... I wondered about splitting the pair with a Grand Seiko SBGX261? Following your system ... and obviously EXTREMELY SUBJECTIVE ... I ended up with: Value 9, Design 9, Movement 9 (I have no problem with 9F Quartz), Brand 9, Quality 9, Style 9, Versatility 9, Performance 10, Durability 8, X-Factor 8. For an Explorer equaling 89. Thoughts? As an aside, ... using your marking system, ... what is the highest scoring watch? Subjectively yours ....... Rick in Hong Kong.

[@erlcugnaga1065]

Hi TGV, you mentioned something about antimagnetic resistance. Can you mention the difference in numbers? Great video again! thanks for your time.

[@robertcollins9411]

Found a second hand Explorer in a shop recently. Had never seen one in person. Couldn't get over how much presence a small, battered, stainless steel watch could have.

[@andyyoung6073]

What is the difference between this movement and the 3132 in my white face OP 39? Great vid by the way. Also loved the explorer in London. Must visit Floris this year!

[@michaelkennedy4444]

Another great comparison by TGV . I have the Sarb 033 and very happy with it . Another Rolex consideration would be the Milgauss.

[@Shibzzeg]

Hey, TGV! I'd like to buy my first automatic watch and thanks to your excellent and informative videos, I think I'm going to go with the Seiko Sea Urchin (I really like the idea of an exhibition back for my first automatic). However, the shops are strangely lacking in this niche in the country of my residence, so I have to import. Again, from your videos, I'm fortunate to know that Seiko's sometimes have quality control issues, so I'm a bit worried about ordering from Amazon. So I'd like to ask if you could refer me to a reputable online watch store that could check the watch for defects before shipping and ship internationally (or within the US to a package forwarding company's address)?

[@alfrepue8740]

Great review! I love the Seiko.

[@andygore1028]

I just want to say how much I enjoy your videos....ALOT.

[@markplayford5836]

Great video, I have the white face SARB (35?) just wish it was a little bigger at a 40 or 42 for my wrists but lovely just the same. The strap is fabulous though, mine is still on the bracelet... for now!

[@joepinehill]

Great video. What is the make and model of the Explorer strap?

[@sethmb3003]

I actually had the diashock of my SKX007 fail miserably a while back. I may have bumped it a bit too hard, but the cage came undone and I found it underneath the date wheel after disassembling.

[@yusuf5316]

Nicely done dear sir :) Loved it. Let me share my story with the comparison between the watches - went to a Rolex AD with wife having the 033 on and to check out the explorer. After putting it on asked wife "So what do you think?" She said, well it's very nice but it's also very similar to the watch you are wearing now. That explorer is amazing but the 033 rocks as well :) And love the strap on that 033.

[@shiranduarte]

Awesomely done comparisons. Very fair. Most people (and snobbish watch reviewers) would end the video throwing the seiko out of the window, if at all committed to make a video about comparing them. Kudos. IMMENSE respect!

[@rabihelia6574]

Your channel is the best!! In all cases, I have a friend in Japan and I will bring with him both SARB033 and SARB035. The quality/price ratio for the JDMs is just insane and I personally adore this watch! Thanks for all the reviews. Please advise me on the best black leather strap I can get. Thanks!