My Dream Grand Seiko Is A Nightmare | Spring Drive GMT SBGE257

[@kendallwi]

Man buys watch he's never tried on and complains about the fit afterwards. 🙄

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Do you think that title would have worked better?

[@pioleq]

​@@CasualWatchReviewshahahah 😂

[@zplapplap]

Too cynical of a comment for the earnestness and lack of whining in the video.

[@MaxairEngineering]

Great video and very informative.

[@PeterWilliamson-nn9et]

He works for Rolex maybe

[@darrenlemaistre6966]

At the end of the day it’s a very personal thing. In my opinion you should always try on a watch before buying. As for people saying seiko or grand seiko is just seiko …. Not really sure they know what they are talking about. A lot of people seem to have opinions but not very well informed ones. Too much watch snobbery on Swiss brands I feel…Most Swiss brands are great but Grand Seiko is in my opinion GREAT too.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I actually totally agree! Grand Seiko is good, I'm in that camp!

[@markwheeler4417]

The first moral of this sad story is always try on a watch, especially if you've never really worn one before and the second lesson is that sometimes man maths can be painful. Let's hope the next GS is more to your liking. Fingers crossed.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Yep!

[@wilfredkoopman3320]

I don’t agree about what you say about the watch. Mine wears perfectly fine and I would recommend it!

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Why don't you make a upload about it giving the counter argument then? Happy to link it to this one?

[@Y0UTUBEADMIN]

@@CasualWatchReviewsvery passive aggressive

[@LurkingCrassZero]

​@@Y0UTUBEADMIN Quite bitchy I'd say. lol

[@Fanny_Snuffle]

@@CasualWatchReviews You have more money than sense.

[@AX7razor]

I would never buy a watch with the expectation of a great return value. For me, it would just feel like I bought it as an investment not because I liked it and wanted it. Great watch though, I love Grand Seiko.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Yep I never buy a watch expecting to make money or break even, was not expecting to lose so much on this one however.

[@calindor19]

Gs isnt a investment is luke buy and never sell it since second hand price is horroble low

[@duncansmith5050]

Well obviously, it's a current model so try it on before you buy. Not every watch is for every wrist. As for value retention, buy a rolex or pp a brand with cachet if that's important to you. At least do your homework first. In any case, a marque that doesn't hold value doesn't matter so much if you plan to buy another pre owned watch from the same marque. OP is clearly a knowledgeable guy, but I think his gripes here are unfounded ded.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Hi Duncan, I have a Rolex in the collection, I was planning on keeping this watch not selling it. I lost money because I wanted to sell it quick. It’s easier said than done trying on a Grand Seiko. I made an assumption that a GS would wear as well as a seiko. I have reviewed hundreds of watches on the channel, only 2 have ever felt so poorly designed as this case was. So the odds that it wouldn’t fit me well were likely 1 in 100. So I honestly thought it would fit. I don’t think thats unfounded would you say?

[@manueljnegrete5048]

Man! 15 minutes of negativity? I bought a Longines Big Eye a couple years ago and it just didn't wear well for me so I traded it and moved on.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

For some reason people love this, have you seen the views! I do a load of positive reviews and livestreams, no where near the views this one got.

[@BarrieShapiro]

I have had this same problem that you demonstrate in your video with two of my watches and I finally figured out how to resolve it. It is extremely important that the buckle is centered exactly on the flat of the underside of the wrist. If not, the watch will not stay in ideal position and will move around as you wear it as the buckle seeks centering trough your movements. This is especially prevalent with taller and heavier watches. The solution is to make the 6 o'clock side shorter than the 12 o'clock side until the buckle sits absolutely flat on the underside of the wrist. Assuming that the fit of the bracelet is correct, swap links, one at a time, from the shorter 6 o'clock side to the longer 12 o'clock side. As you swap links, use the micro adjustment of the buckle to make sure you have an exact fit and then try to see if the problem is resolved while wearing the watch for awhile as you go through normal movements. This process will be different for all watches and depends on the length of the buckle and links. Once you achieve the proper ratio between the short and long sides, the watch will not move around and it will stay in your ideal position.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Thanks for the comment maybe this will work for some people reading this. I didn’t cover it in the upload but I moved links around and even tried it on different straps. I have reviewed hundreds of watches in the channel and only two have wore so poorly as this one did for me.

[@rickyvalenciano7485]

You pick the cheap one than comfortable....

[@Cleatus546]

I solved the problem of proper fit by wearing the watch on my foot.

[@erkanvural3621]

hahaha i did same for my seiko to find correct position exactly like you suggested else. watch is not sitting balanced in your wrist and that mentioned problem occured

[@johnmartin7158]

You make a good point. I’ve got a cheaper 880 dollar brand new limited edition Bruce Lee seiko with black leather strap. Either it was too tight or slightly loose. When slightly loose it wouldn’t centre on my hand and tight felt like strangulation. But I put up with tight and after a few months it’s now centred on my hand near perfectly. I’ve viewed a lot of the Grand Seiko and I’m not exactly enamoured. But I still love my Hamilton Khaki Army watch immensely. Not always is an expensive one better if ya get my drift. As long as a watch keeps good enough time and it’s appealing to me, that’s all I care about. And I love the immense choices and varieties of Hamilton. Cheers NZ.

[@richardcyr1346]

I have a SBGJ255G in titanium. 44GS case. Extremely comfortable! I was super precious about scratches at first, but then I read a story about a man who wore his Rolex every single day for about 50 years. He loved the watch and wore it! That’s what a nice watch is for!

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I bet titanium would be perfect!

[@sergiogarcia9822]

And that Rolex man can get that Rolex serviced for 300 bucks and sell it for at least what he paid for it if not more, totally the opposite of a grand seiko.

[@richardcyr1346]

Haha. You're probably right, but I'll never sell this watch because it has sentimental value, is pretty rare, and feels like a piece of art on my wrist.@@sergiogarcia9822

[@jski718]

I was the same way when I first got my Speedmaster. I brushed every little scuff that I got. Now 4 years later I've worn it every day and it's been beaten up. You gotta just wear them like they're meant to be worn and not care.

[@richardcyr1346]

That Speedmaster is a beautiful watch! @@jski718

[@DoveSharma]

I think GS makes the most boring looking cases and bracelets in the industry. Its so hard to actually like a GS watch, even though the watch journalists and youtubers cant stop gushing about it.

[@RJ-cq8dd]

Agreed. I like the movement, but can't justify paying that amount when any cheaper watch i own looks more interesting.

[@knivesandstuff]

my Grand Seiko is 2 years old now.. and while i dont use it hard or heavily, its got nothing near that level of scratching, but i agree. i think you need to baby it to keep it pristine. but its hard to notice the tiny scratches it does have in normal use. the shine overshadows them

[@anteneupitra]

seiko garbage

[@1millionstartups]

Love Zeiratsu polishing but dread scratches until i looked into tegimented Sinn's. They aren't totally scratch proof but very scratch resistant, even in black and with their bracelets. Accuracy = a spring drive, and resale strong.

[@RC-ox9yx]

@@anteneupitra You're misinformed my friend!

[@josepauloneuparthvieirafer4449]

There are 4 brands I would never buy. Gd, hublot, Richard Mille and Breitling. None of them appeals to me.Sorry.

[@JRB-l7o]

I sold a troublesome Batman and bought one of these with the profit. It fits me like a glove, it's accurate and flies under the radar a bit. Best of all, its not a Rolex!

[@f.kieranfinney457]

As a dress watch I love GS. But their sports watches blow. Omega or Tudor all the way.

[@kbeightyseven1783]

Also the zaratsu finishing isnt polishing its a case finishing technique that gives zero distortion, which leads to being able to polish it to a mirror finish, look at other cheaper brands and as much as you polish it the image will still be distorted, minor scratches will polish out with a jewellers polishing cloth,

[@jluis2551]

Very confusing…. Try the watch before buying should be the moral of the story. Who gives a crap If you try the watch on with out buying anything. That’s the point of those places. Now if you were patient I’m sure you would have sold the watch at the price you sold it for.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Yep, possibly!

[@keithtao2896]

I have been collecting watches for a long time and aside from a couple of crazy years just passed when new watches all seem to have vanished and used ones selling for unreal prices, preowned watches took big hit on resale. Even Rolex models today with only a handful of exceptions lose substantial money on resale especially when you consider the sales tax you paid and the 13% commission eBay takes.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Yep, it was for sure a hit! I probably could have held out for more but once I feel funny about a watch it has to go. Less mental stress 😂

[@PocketWatchTime]

Great review Sam. Enjoyed the story… sorry for the hit to the wallet.

[@gtcih]

I’ve got many Seikos. Their movements are workhorses and usually are way more accurate than their specs. I have vintage 6309s and 7626 divers that run less than 5 seconds per day with a beat error close to 0.0. I had to regulate them, but the potential definitely there.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I also have a vintage seiko! Love them 7 Reasons Seiko Will NEVER Make a Watch this Good Again! kzbin.info/www/bejne/naaXZWp3prefftk

[@extremejoy]

After watching your entire video; I’m siding with your wife…😂

[@darrenlemaistre6966]

My grand seiko fits perfectly and it’s really comfortable. Have not got a clue what the dude is on about . The polishing still looks fantastic after a year of use .

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Which dude?

[@LurkingCrassZero]

@@CasualWatchReviews I thought he'd misgendered you also.

[@deanvanlaarhoven1413]

If you think five and $6,000 is too much for a spring drive, then you simply do not understand and appreciate what it is. The new 9RA2 is beyond amazing as well!!!

[@CasualWatchReviews]

6k is too much for a spring drive, I understand it.

[@UltraDoug]

Ouch, hard lesson for sure. It seems far more difficult to sell watches these days. Last year in Chrono24 I was able to sell quite easily. These days, selling the same caliber of watch, as you say, doesn’t get a sniff. Lots looking, but just low ballers. Anyway, best of luck on your new GS! Great vid 😎👍🏼

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Yep very hard to sell now! Thanks for watching Doug!

[@mkyhou1160]

I have had success selling on Chrono24 but you have to be realistic. As a private seller you need to be at least 1k less than lowest price from a dealer. It hurts but that’s the reality. Take your loss and move on. I tried on these GS GMTs at an AD, didn’t like any of them, seem a bit fussy design language in person.

[@resjon7981]

So true I sold around 55 watches last year yet so far this year I have only managed to sell 13 watches.

[@nerychristian]

The economy is on a downward trend. Inflation is hitting people hard. The people who bought watches prior to the pandemic are probably all trying to sell their watches now because they need the money. China especially is hit hard by poor economy

[@keepleft]

Don't fall for Kevin O'Leary's/Teddy Baldesarre's/WF&Co's bullsh*t.

[@patrickmcdaniel4452]

1st video I've seen from your channel. I like the production style. I have a similar model Grand Seiko (just different colorway) and love it. Fits me great on the original bracelet or on a fabric strap (how I normally wear it). It's one of my favorite watches. I suppose it comes down to how it fits you, which is a very personal thing. Sorry you did so poorly on the trade. I keep my watches so don't really get concerned with trade values.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Hey Patrick, thanks for watching. It was a great watch and in a little jealous of the people who have commented that it fit them well! Welcome to the channel and thanks for watching!

[@hanwaisproperty]

And where's the review on tge quartz GS that was on the way? Would lile to see on your wrist!

[@christyanthonypillai8891]

I've got this watch for my boys 1st birthday to pass on to him on his 18th birthday. It is Top heavy on the bracelet but i found the solution in swapping out the bracelet for a rubber strap and it fits like a glove now. Its a fantastic watch!

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I tried it on a rubber and still didn't work for me. It is a beautiful watch no doubt about it!

[@ET-cj8jo]

You bought this watch for yourself. Do you really think your son will want the watch after you have worn it for 17 years ? Maybe when he reaches 18 buy him a watch that he wants, not your cruddy cast off.

[@FerrisB]

@@ET-cj8jo Well said.

[@TheApacheTrail]

Lol

[@jakobhp3180]

Why don't they put lume on their hands. Have you bern in a situation where you actually needed to know the time in pitch black? GS watches are a piece of art snd it myst be seen in the light.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Plenty of times I have needed lume in low light conditions... why do you think I mentioned needing it?

[@markcopeman3552]

Not really a rant, just a good tale of sensible advice. My issue is I have an 8 inch wrist ! Many watches I'd like are just too small for me. A 40mm is as small as I go if that's nearly all dial but a bezel kills it. Just about get away with my Longines Big Eye. My sweet spot is probably 42 or 43mm. Always try a watch on if you can you may be surprised what you can and can't wear. Have been thinking about a GS myself. Good warning about that high polish issue, it does scream Scratch Magnet!

[@birenthapa462]

I’d prefer the hands of zaratsu than any lume hands unless if it’s a diver. lol

[@byrong1561]

The eBay authentication program is a great initiative for the prospective buyer, but its clear the seller is paying for the service through inflated selling fees. Sadly, outside of the holy trinity and Rolex, its inevitable most popular brands will depreciate markedly on the secondary market, irrespective of the condition and value for money being offered. This is especially true with the economy as it and the watch market down. Great video which will hopefully earn you a few quid to offset against your unfortunate loss.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Great points and thanks for watching!

[@mell3109]

Every watch will have given you a loss between buying and selling including Rolex, just the way it is.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I actually have sold both a speedmaster and a Rolex at a profit, but it’s by far the norm.

[@MrBacchus18]

Very interesting video to me indeed because I am looking to buy a Gran Seiko for my 50th birthday (I use that as an excuse). I am thinking an entry level 39mm sub 5k I tried one on last year it fits good. But some concerns I had like scratched up zaratsu, servicing, and maybe reselling if I actually don't like it. Also considering 9f quartz watches also. I'm interested to see what you think of the quartz Grand Seiko.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Hey! Yep I will try and do a review for next week of the new one

[@koolwill9862]

You don’t buy a Lamborghini and a Bugatti to drive it everyday you buy it to show the neighbors that you have it🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️

[@CasualWatchReviews]

That sounds like a very sad life.

[@RobLewis3]

Spring drive. Great technology. Seiko and Grand Seiko amazing company, excellent finishing etc. Good at everything. But... the GS watches are so boring lmao. I have to say I think you probably picked the most interesting one. And this is coming from someone who loves (and owns) regular Seikos.

[@michaelramzi1094]

Ok. You just don't make 15 minutes video for saying you hate your Seiko. And someone else making 15 minutes video saying he loves it. Waste of time. You don't like it , return it or sell it.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I sold it!

[@jeanlefranc3817]

The GMT 9F SBGN003 is a truly cracking watch. Perfect for the smaller wrist, beats the claimed accuracy of 10 seconds per year and flies under the radar when you don’t want to draw attention on your wrist gear.

[@mattnielsen7639]

Dont have money....has a rolex 😮 lies. If you can't afford a 5k seiko easily def shouldnt be buying a rolex.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I already had the Rolex, I said I couldn't afford to lose money like that. I was trying to show that it was not an easy decision to sell. I didn't want to be flippant about the money lost and the time it took building up to buy this watch. The evidence of what I said was right there in the upload, I'm not sure how much clearer I could have made it.

[@tlpplacement9355]

Great video, bravo. In East Asia (Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea), new GS is retailed at about 70% to 75% of list price, depending on the model. A mint, used one, at about 60% to 65% list is about right. You didn't overpay for your GS, at US$4,000. But when you re-sold shortly after initial acquisition, you should expect to get 55% to 60% of list price (minus dealer margin if you go for a trade-in), for a near-mint item. You did alright re-selling it at US$3,500, excludign tax and platform fees.

[@tacomn]

Not to be mean but to me this whole video I just heard mess ups on your part. You did not try the watch on. You could of tried it on but you chose not too because you felt uncomfortable 🥴.Ok but then you perhaps over payed for a used one and then you rushed sold it for way less then its worth. I just checked the model price on secondary market on chrono 24, the watch did no appreciate. You impulsively sold it for a lot less then even close to market price. Not sure how this has anything to do with GS, sounds like you screwed yourself every way possible.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I for sure made mistakes, thats what this video is about. The case is badly proportioned on this watch, thats why it had to go. Respectfully, you’re just pointing out things I actually said in the upload, did you watch till the end?

[@simonelwell]

I have a GS Black Diver - titanium strap and case and the strap (because it's titanium) is too light for the watch - it feels insubstantial and the watch does tend to slide to one side. My solution is to wear it on a silicon strap - better for a "wet" watch anyway and more comfortable on the wrist. It also preserves the titanium bracelet in pristine condition for if I ever want to sell the watch - which I don't plan to do but "just in case". Spring Drive is superb btw.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I would like to test out a titanium Grand Seiko watch. Thanks for watching Simon!

[@user-dz6eg2hy2s]

I dont think lux watches are for people that cant take a few thousand dollars of losses... Almost all lux watches depreciate in value. Even those that appreciate, you offen have to play the "buy useless jewelries to get on the wait list" game before you can buy one... Again, if losing a couple thousand dollars is hard for you, then it is not for you...

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I have bought two Rolex watches and never had to buy any ‘extras’ you’re just playing the game wrong.

[@Number_006]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I have a Grand Seiko SGBW231 (paid full retail at $4300) and I know I would lose at least $1k if I sell. I have had it for years now, still love it and so if I did sell, I look at that loss as the cost of enjoying it for years. It sucks when you know immediately it wasn't the right watch for you. But your willingness to share helps us all!

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I would like to say "I'm not a number'"... but in this case I was... and it was less than I wanted to be 😂

[@Number_006]

@@CasualWatchReviews Ha! :)

[@paulnetter4323]

My dude... stay on the topic please. Your lengthy digressions should be separate stories.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

This isn’t live? The upload has been on KZbin since September last year.

[@chillvill1646]

I have a small wrist 6.75...mine fits great/comfortably...was the clasp centered on the underside properly? I have no slippage what so ever....I'll never part with it....scratch free....mirror polish still today.

[@ShawnKruitbosch]

Same size wrist here., 17.0 cm or 6.75"... SBGE255 (blue dial). I kind of had the same problem until I re-sized and centered it. It took me a couple weeks of messing with the links and micro adjust to get it just right, but I love it now. I don't buy watches as investments, but it sure is disheartening to hear about the loss in value after just a couple weeks.

[@markgaskell5370]

I think some of this, regarding how it looks may be in your head, because that Sumo looks genuinely terrible on your wrist

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Hey Mark. Just wondering how you handle people making stilly comments on your KZbin videos… asking for a friend?

[@gorillaofjohn15]

sorry to hear that. I think this has also happened to a good portion of us here. It is part of the journey and we learn. And yes, the watch market has slowed down significantly and you are right to say that postings hardly get a sniff in nowadays. The market really was red hot from the tail end of COVID, rose further through 2021 and peaked at 2022. Theres a sharp drop this year.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Yep! Totally right

[@MrFrescocotone]

A lume on GS , you rrally dont understand anything about GS. Just go buy the usual rolex man 😂🤦‍♂️

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Did you watch the upload or just get outraged at the title. I have a Rolex and also now another grand seiko that replaced this one that I love.

[@nottherealaaron]

This is how I feel when I look at the dimensions of a lot of Grand Seikos. They're stunning, but they're too bulky. I have the SBGN005, the predecessor the SBGN029, and I adore it. It's light and small enough that I can easily forget it's on my wrist. And it's best grab and go watch I own as it never loses or gains significant time. Hope you really enjoy it!

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I'm liking mine so far... I will try and do the review for next week!

[@Kenzabukuro]

It's a shame since vintage GS were basically perfect.

[@Guitarorpheo]

To recap 8 minutes of jabber: the watch sits uncomfortably on the wrist. That took ages!

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I made a short version that was 1min long for people with sort attention spans. It’s under ‘shorts’. It was a story, with a beginning middle and end. And in fact people are watching till the end looking at the stats.

[@Time_Passages]

Super useful review. Your shots of the polishing and scratches validated my concerns. I am looking for the very same quartz GMT. Now I know what I should be paying for it used. Thanks again

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@Stu412t]

I couldn’t sell it at that much loss after a few weeks. I’d have kept it as a reminder of what a plonker I was.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I don’t need a physical reminder of that 😂

[@willbrink]

GS always looked beautiful in photos, in person they always felt and looked meh to me. Several times I have gone with the intent of purchasing, seeing it in person, changed my mind. Just too many great brands in the price range for me, some costing less that impressed me more.

[@ricknelson7157]

I'm sure Grand Seiko are great watches. BUT there is no way in hell that I'm spending any more than $600-$800, max on any watch that says Seiko on the dial. This is the same reason that Omega took a dive when they decided to go the quartz route in the 70's. I'd much rather buy a cool micro brand with a swiss movement than anything that says Seiko on it.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Hey Rick. Honestly, it’s likely the only reason Omega is still around today is the fact they made quartz watches in the 70’s, not despite them doing it.

[@ricknelson7157]

@@CasualWatchReviews In 1978 I bought my first nice watch. I looked at both a Rolex Submariner and n Omega Seamaster quartz. They were equal in the eyes of most at the time. I bought the Omega Seamaster quartz. Today it's worth less than $500. Had I bought the Rolex It would be worth more than $5,000. Omega lost it's cache' BECAUSE it went quartz and gold plated. How many watches does Omega sell today? How many does Rolex sell? How many more could Rolex sell if they made more? Seiko is, well Seiko meh...

[@Nik-do1wd]

Great video. I was looking at GS for ages - I tried a 37mm on at the watch store and it really wore incredibly well - went to chrono24 and bought a 37mm immediately and haven’t taken it off! I originally wanted a 39mm gmt quartz - which itself was amazing. I do understand issues with bigger watches being oddly weighted sometimes, though I think big watches are getting an unfair bad rep right now.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Yep I do also. I had a massive Breitling B1, it worse amazing, much better than this seiko.

[@bigiona3938]

All of those big watch resellers lowball like crazy. I inquired about selling my SBGA407 which is in excellent shape and retails for $5,800, their offer was also $2,500. That seems to be the generic response for them. I said no and I’m glad I did as I love the watch and wear it quite often. I let go of a different piece and got a great price on Chrono24. Actually double what my AD offered to buy it back for. Hope the quartz works out for you!!

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Thanks! So far so good!

[@antonybeardsley7862]

It’s really cool you have been honest and admitted your mistakes. People are very quick to judge in general and as humans we all make mistakes. I’ve lost lots of money on lower value watches I’ve brought and ended up hating. It’s easily done. Guess each time we just try and learn and attempt to not do it again lol. I’m a new subscriber enjoying the content.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Hey Anthony, welcome to the channel and agree with your comment!

[@richfenn28]

Ah no they r just too small How can anyone find these bulky

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Not bulky l, unbalanced!

[@watchrolling]

Very informative and useful review. I think wear is so subjective as everyone's wrist is different. Some pieces feel heavy to some people and not others. Appreciate the honesty and the educational video Sam. Great job!!

[@Notfiveo0]

Looses his shirt on a Grand Seiko, sells it and buys another one. Brilliant!

[@teleguy5699]

Oh well. Have fun begging an AD for a Rolex.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Begging an AD for a Rolex? I’m not replacing this with a Rolex, or I didn’t. I am working on a video called ‘why grand seiko is not better than Rolex’ should be posted next week.

[@StroppyDog]

I'm a GS fan and have several. I got my first one lightly used from the AD through a partial trade (two Seamaster 120's and four basic Seiko's) and that taught me they can be a great deal on the secondary market so don't pay retail. For future reference, there's an AD in the suburbs of SF that likely would've done a straight swap (except sales tax) for the one you were after and usually has a great selection of lightly used GS.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Thats good to know for future. I don't get out to SF too often anymore however.

[@freddyt55555]

Which suburb? Do tell.

[@STROND]

To have several 😮

[@tboyer344]

Which suburbs? I live in SF

[@TimG--]

I hate it too. For losers

[@HerrBerg]

So true, I visited the boutique in Paris and tried the different cases they had. The only ones that fit comfortably was the 44gs and the thinner quartz and manual wind options. I would never had the chance to try them all out before buying at home. Definitely, try them out before you buy !😊

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Yep, I actually tried a few of the new ones on in Tokyo, not this model, however! thanks for watching!

[@antonylaing2499]

I did the same thing and the watch I bought in the boutique was completely different to one that I thought I wanted from looking online and in catalogues.

[@STROND]

What a shame as the grand Seiko is on my bucket list....maybe I will still get one but a different model!

[@GolgoSixty]

Great points. I went through the same journey looking for a spring drive and noticed how bad the weight balance was. In the end, went with the GMT grand seiko quartz and it was perfect

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Thats what I ended up doing! And I feel the same! Thanks for watching!

[@digbyranford6657]

I got the grand seiko quartz gmt , it sits low is light weight , super accurate, fits beautifully and found it for £1500 used on eBay. Never looked back, hope you find the right one 👍

[@m54samman]

How it wears is one of the most important things (IMO), especially something that is meant to be worn as essentially a "tool watch". That is a tough lesson to learn. But nice that you aired your mistakes and hopefully someone will learn to try them on even before purchase. I appreciate your channel, subscribed!

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Thanks, yep, I totally agree. Only ever owned two watches that wore this poorly on my wrist!

[@CasualWatchReviews]

If you want to discuss any topics in this video live, we host a live stream Tuesdays (7:30pm Eastern) and Sundays (4:30pm Eastern). The latest episode is here kzbin.infoF4CeJkIrI0c

[@guilessa]

The case sizes of many GS's always concerned me a bit. This was a very instructive and unbiased review. Good job! Maybe the right choice for GS buyers is to go for the more formal, dressy and not so bulky watches...

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Im going to explore more of the line and try on some of the dressier ones for sure! Thanks for watching

[@AndySmith4501]

There's nothing wrong with the 4 and 6 series movements. I certainly haven't seen or heard of them failing as is being implied here. Most in my experience come out of the factory running with a 6 to 10 second per day discrepancy which is acceptable. I had a Powermatic 80 running at +45.

[@WatchDanReviews]

Thanks for the review! I miss having Lume on my GS. But at the same time the rainbow reflection coming off those insanely polished hands would be diminished with lume, so I get it. In low light it’s highly visible, but in very low light or no light it is not visible at all.

[@KickoStocks]

THANK YOU on the lume thing, I can get almost every single Rolex model with lume but none here. Also ugly bracelets. I want one so bad and end up passing every time because of these two things.

[@ClementRollin]

I got the "quartz version", and tried the spring drive multiple time : le quartz is way, way thinner, and way more confortable to me.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I think your right! My new quartz arrived!

[@JavierBonillaC]

Excellent point of view. Few people talk about how the watch actually wears on your wrist.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I wish they had on the few videos I had watched on this! Thanks for watching!

[@Cleatus546]

Seiko uses a mineral crystal on the grand seiko. 🤣🤣🤣🤣 The cost of sapphire is prohibitive. It would cost 20 dollars more.🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@gregschulte2953]

GS watches just don't do it for me. There are so many better options that are much better value. They probably represent some of the worst resale in the market - there is a reason for that.

[@ER-me1ii]

Unfortunate to hear an experience like that with GS. I bought my first an sbgm221 with the movement you don’t favor. My next will be a spring drive probably the shunbun from the heritage collection or snowflake or lake sewa. Love the brand, don’t care about lume just blown away by the look and craftsmanship.

[@hereharehere]

So you bought a shoddy one, paid too much and made it worse. That's the nightmare, not Grand Seiko.

[@channelsixtyeight068_]

I just purchased a G-Shock GMW-B5000RD-4, it is a deep burgundy color. Any scratch on that will stand out like a sore thumb. I've just seen a S.Korean company called "Watchshells". It is film kit that you apply all over the watch including the bezel, crystal and a metal strap. They do kits for all the major luxury brands. Could you have been too picky with the watch and that you could have got used to it over time? That was an expensive exercise. I'm pleased I only like digital watches, they are a much cheaper indulgence.

[@martinkaplan1805]

I get it! For me, after beauty and quality, it’s all about fit and comfort.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

100%

[@knalworstje7190]

I have the same watch and it is my favorite. It wears better than my Omega Moonwatch .

[@CasualWatchReviews]

That’s cool! Yep, for me they are totally opposite, my speedmaster wore like a glove,

[@thetruthhurts7500]

Bottomline Seiko are great introductory watches..GS are a little better but not much...Wearability, bracelets, distribution of weight - all horrible....Everyone talks about the "spring drive"..The spring drive is just nonsense. If you cant wear the watch properly, the accuracy is meaningless. I get a kick out of when they compare GS to Rolex lol. Stop please..Not even in the same ballpark. Like them or not (probably because you cant get one yourself) Rolex is the king..

[@VicYo-en3wm]

Use solvol chrome cleaner on it you will see before your eyes your watch restored to like new mirror finish trust me on that !!!!

[@lordcharfield4529]

Sorry to say this, but the watch looks very untidy/awkward/horrible and I don’t like the idea of the spring drive, or GMT’s! To be fair, I like a clean dial. Sorry you didn’t get your money back.

[@StephenOshea]

'm realy surprised about these problems with the grand seiko wow

[@itspapaho7898]

Damn. I felt the “My wife is gonna kill me” vibes vicariously through listening to your story.

[@ianmedium]

I have had my GS for 8 years now. I wear it a great deal and the polishing still has zero scratches. It looks like whoever owned yours before is very heavy handed in how he or she wears their watches! As for lume I rarely if ever find any benefit from it. When it's sunny it charges if you have a short sleeve shirt but once night comes the lume fades very quickly and I have Lumed watches that are noted for their excellence in lume. If I wear a watch in the dark I wear my Marathon tritium watch.

[@marcandreasson87]

Sorry to hear about your disappointment. Ebay are indeed absolute rip offs with their fees and promoted advertising. Cost me 1k to sell a 12k watch on their platform. The watch you purchased aesthetically was a wreck and not worth more than 3.5 your eventual selling price. The seller on C24 probably had a hard time selling it and faked the commission sale line to you because he didn't want to take it back because of the condition. That little scratch on the back of the lug compared to wrest of the watch was his reason to knock back a return. It looks like a daily beater from your video. If it was 6.3 new and I was looking for one and came across that on C24, I would have offered high 2's or low 3's. Sure watches are made to be worn but that apple hit every branch of the tree going down. Still I hope you QF is living up to your standards ✌

[@josevasquez1781]

I own Omiwatari sbgy007 and dark moon light if that's what is called sbgy009 9R31 wow they both wear like a dream. But I get it not every watch is gonna be for everyone.

[@Brad-vs1lk]

You have a very nice Rolex datejust but I understand that you desire a watch with more lume. I would have sold that one and saved for a Submariner making it my one and only watch until I stop breathing. They basically glow in the dark all night long and you can go swimming or whatever. You would probably make money on the Datejust and same with the Sub. Maybe next time!!!

[@zyvex128]

If losing $1000 after buying a watch in a short period is not comfortable for you, you shouldn’t spend that much money on a watch. Most watches only remain value or appreciate at time horizon of 10+ years, if appreciate at all.

[@carlocosina9141]

I haven't wear one or own one, but had a chance to see a collection from one of the local malls here and frankly I can say that the design is blunt and boring, the only one point a GS stand out is it's in the face design and maybe it's movement. So as they say.

[@d3xmeister]

This is one of the most interesting videos about watches I’ve seen maybe this year. Thank you for sharing this experience

[@CasualWatchReviews]

I think I will try and do more of these 'tales of watch collecting'. Thanks for watching

[@DM-rc4yu]

No wonder they depreciate so much considering how ugly they are. That kind of date window and date wheel on a supposedly 6k watch, really? Grand Seiko is so overrated and so is their finishing. Not only not everything is "zaratsu" polished, but most of the time it ends up not mattering since you will either put on at least small scratches on it AND the watch will in practice never be perfectly clean to show the polished surfaces off.

[@timwilliams113]

Reverse Midas Rolex touch I won't be buying a money-pit Grand Seiko, however clever the tech

[@iancarnell5020]

Disagree about Seiko mechanical movements. The ETA 2824 and Selita version movements suffer from a design flaw on manual winding. The reverser gears lock up if wound manually regularly. If you are a collector this can be a problem. Seiko movements are more reliable if regulated properly.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Yep I actually disagree there but appreciate the comment. I don’t think seiko are more reliable, not the new ones, not in my experience. I have a Vintage seiko that is rock solid. But not the new movements. I have never had one issue with an ETA or Selitta, if you check my library of review you will see me talking about multiple issues I have had with Seikos. I still like Seiko but it’s not correct to say they are more reliable, not from my experience and the number I have reviewed.

[@compaqdeskpro5770]

I'll pass, I'd rather have the sacriligious Prospex LX.

[@1millionstartups]

Thank you for honest feeling and cost about owning a spring drive. I have a chance to buy a new SNR051 at good discount but I guess I can hold out for an even better deal on secondary.

[@grahamliggat7193]

Ouch, wow and thank you. GS and spring drive are a grail for me so really helpful to have that insight before I trip over esp. as they are a little out of reach for me just now (which may have helped me from tripping over w/o seeing this). Like you I have a vintage GS (6246) which I love but I have been hankering after a new one so really helpful to hopefully learn from your experience. Here’s hoping the one you have in the pipeline lives up to your expectations.

[@CasualWatchReviews]

Thanks Graham and thanks for watching!

[@danmarjenka6361]

What a waste of money, plus it increases your chances of being robbed walking down the street. Or accidentally sctratch it on a metal door frame or a brick wall, and you just lost a thousand dollars in value. Instead of a watch, buy a boat. You will have a lot more fun throwing your money away with a boat.