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?

[@matejzeman7765]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@bryand.5240]

agreed, i saved to buy my Heuer Autavia, but i can now afford it as well as other luxuries, i wish i would have gone with a cheaper chrono but at the time the looks of the autavia just infatuated me

[@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!

[@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 ;-)

[@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.

[@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

[@sbsb4995]

Rolex is over hyped and over priced.

[@perfectcarspec109]

I get that Rolex offers some awesome watches with great history, but theres no way a watch should cost as much as a car...

[@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 !

[@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

[@hogandori]

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

[@scottparis6355]

Oh. yes, and if you're talking about "one watch," I'd much rather the Seiko and a $5000 trip to Europe.

[@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

[@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!

[@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...

[@pickeliebaba]

Submariner vs. SKX :D

[@theurbangentry]

OMG!!! Genius. That is next, thank you sir! Best regards, TGV

[@acefire6422]

Would love to see TGV do that!

[@YounanPhoto]

I feel like the SKX would get totally destroyed. It won't be fair. No diver can touch the Submariner (a watch I don't own and never will). The SKX (having owned it multiple times) just has a few issues and its non-winding movement is really frustrating for an everyday watch.

[@ChrisBeckman]

Hats off to Seiko for even inspiring a side by side comparison with an Iconic brand like Rolex. I don’t see the likes of any other comparison from a horological commentator with price points 10x’s apart.

[@kaotic262]

I'm watching this drunk and your intro nearly made me throw up. haha

[@edgillis4686]

It’s really unbelievable how much watch you get with the SARB033. The Rolex is very impressive, but I added a SARB035 and Alpinist along with some nice straps - and I’ve got $4,000 left over vs. if I had purchased the Rolex. I guess I’m more of an enthusiast than I am concerned with “status”. Both the Rolex and the Seiko have a nice 38mm dial size. I’m a bit concerned that some of the large dial watches popular today may go out of style in a few years, they certainly seem to bump into things more often than these medium sized watches.

[@bernardpaulsen825]

I own quite a few watches, among them a vintage Panerai, a Cartier, an Omega Speedmaster, but also pedestrian watches like the "Flighty" (thanks to you!) and a G-Shock Square (5040) as well as an Mudmaster. I sold the last of my Rolex watches because (1) I started to realize that they send a message of wealth to the average Joe and Jill that I don't want to send out anymore, and (2) because I'm retiring to Mexico very soon and don't want to be that old Gringo flashing a Rolex, for several reasons. Hence, I'm looking for a solid "regular watch" (for me a pure "dress watch" is a Cartier Tank Louis or a PP Calatrava) that could be a daily, and that would do the duties of a, say, Rolex, and given this comparison, I think the Seiko is an incredible value proposition that delivers 80% of the Rolex package at 10% of the price. Now, in my particular case, given my 8-1/4" wrist circumference and the fact that I'd like an old school whitish dial, I'm now circling in on the SDGM001 or the SARX055, a watch around 40mm, but I can see the appeal of the SARB033 very clearly.

[@tzovlask]

As a fan of horology, both are amazing, I'll have to give the edge to Seiko. I think it's the brand I can most personally identify with, as a company that caters to every walk of life and offer beautiful art in combination with craftsmanship, I am such a fan!

[@ДмитрийБогослов-ф9ь]

Точніше і не скажеш!!!seiko top

[@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 ;)

[@deejaywon]

I had a moment there where I saw the 2 watches together and immediately thought that the Seiko was just a more beautiful watch. I have 2 Seiko watches, I've never owned a Rolex. I think after seeing the video that the sarb033 is a luxury watch in every sense, without the luxury tag. I just may have changed my mind about the Lorier Falcon I was saving up for

[@steven3379]

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

[@theurbangentry]

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

[@r0ckworthy]

"Dillon! You son of a b*tch..." ------And then the most masculine handshake to ever be filmed on camera ensues....

[@JohnnyParanoid]

If I ever buy a Rolex, it would probably be an Explorer. Not as obvious as a Sub, Daytona or GMT and versatile enough to wear everywhere and with most everything. But for now, I'm in the SARB price bracket. Thanks, as always! Cheers, JMM

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Justin, if you go SARB or Exp, one thing is certain, you have good taste, and at the end of the day, that is all the matters! ;-) Best regards, TGV

[@j.paul.joseph]

Justin M. Couldn't have said it better myself!

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

I disagree, the Explorer is the Rolex that I dislike the most, and the reason is because it doesn’t deserve its moniker in my opinion. It doesn’t have any dedicated features useful for exploration or trekking or something like that. It doesn’t have any special properties like more resistant materials than normal watches or resistance to magnetism, extreme cold or anything like that. It is only called Explorer because a couple of pioneer climbers of the mount Everest, wore this watch, because Rolex convinced them to wear it in order to advertise their watch. That is something thatt annoys me quite a lot personally. The 2010 update of the Explorer 1 indeed, supposedly has a new technology of shock absorption, that Rolex doesn’t even disclosure anything about, so I can’t help but be a little suspicious if it isn’t but a marketing stratagem You know a watch that deserves the nomenclature of Explorer? A Casio Protrek or Outgear, or even a G-shock, they have barometer, altimeter, thermometer, sunrise and sunset indicator, moon phase, compass and numerous other features, they feature resistance to gravity forces, magnetism, salt water and whatnot. Even a Boldr watch, that to me is kind of overpriced, has features for outdoors activities. The Explorer 2 yes, has GMT feature which justifies its moniker more than the Explorer 1. I do not own any Rolex watches, but if I were to, it would be a Milgauss, Yacht master 2 in SS, a Sea dweller or a Day date, (more precisely a Tudor day date in fact, since the Rolex variation only comes in precious metals, which I’m not interested at the moment) those at least have interesting features

[@vampolascott36]

I know it's all down to personal taste, but the SARB033 for me, has a 1970's aesthetic that seems very generic, probably because I came up in that era. I love the 1930's style of the SARB017 because its so unique and unusual in this day and age. I'm enamored with the ovals and curves on the hands, and the gold plays very well with the stunning green face. The SARB033 is much less lively, and seems too monochromatic and sterile.

[@franzst.664]

That „Predator“ theme - love it ❤️

[@feardabeard7635]

Just saying, I have a Seiko Diver 007 and its been on my arm for 20 years or so. Its my everyday all day and night watch and its never let me down and even if I wanted to I could not break this beast. Its been all over the place. I think it was like $450.00 and that was a lot back then and HELL it still is... I would put this up to any watch.. Still looks somewhat new.. Love your videos bro..

[@Bob.martens]

My SARB arrived yesterday. I chose the 017 over the 033 because of the dial, minus the rather gimmicky compass. All the watches I own and have owned over nearly three dacades have all been black-dial. It was time for a change. Of course I have wild and vivid dreams about owning a Rolex Explorer as my daily, but the extra money is just not in my pockets.

[@futureproofd]

I can't believe they stopped producing the sarb033. The best time to pick one up and hold it dearly, is now

[@CommandoMaster]

Will it go up in value?

[@futureproofd]

@@CommandoMaster it already has and it may continue to, but I think it's reaching its cap out.

[@esa062]

I don't think there is a significant performance difference in the 3 major balance shocks. Kif and Incablock are a lot easier to open and close. Diashock is Seiko's own, so that's what they mainly use, although they also have Incabloc in some movements. Those watches definitely are in the same corner stylewise. I think Alpinist is the Seiko explorer, but it looks quite different. You can see that Explorer is the high end watch, but Seiko has nothing to be ashamed of in this company. I agree that it is a pitty that Explorer costs so much because of the brand popularity. Nobody buys it just because it is good and durable, stylish watch. People only buy it, if they also want a Rolex. It doesn't really get to be what it was born to be.

[@mrk131324]

If a SARB almost beats the Rolex (without considering the price!) then how would a Grand Seiko score?

[@timshipman4846]

I have both. The SARB made me realise that the Rolex I wanted was the Explorer rather than the Sub. I wear the Rolex a lot but the SARB seldom now but I would hate to sell it. For me it's the history and the connections as well as the craftsmanship that puts the Explorer ahead, but is it worth 18 times as much? No way.

[@craik7]

That strap on the SARB is killer!

[@WillAustin]

Yes! I want to know more about the strap.....

[@RH-vd3yu]

Yeah link for those?

[@nickleaver8682]

Goddamn it TGV! I was just about to buy the SARB033, now I have to pay the "TGV Tax" Great video to wake up to though! Thanks!

[@jamesheaney7847]

Just watched your video great discription of both watches I have Rolex stainless Steel daytona also I have a Rolex submariner but I want an everyday watch as I like to go motorbiking Also I like to go to the beach work on my bikes and typical every day work I have a feeling I am destroying my watches as Whist wearing either of my them I will get stuck in to whatever I'm doing regardless of whatever I'm wearing, total waist of a good watches they get scraped and battered and bashed which is a shame as they are now very expensive watches and I now know I was an idiot for having a devil may care attitude so I'm looking for a watch that tells the time and not so cheap as to ruin my reputation after always been seen with a Rolex . The first ever Rolex I was going to buy was the Rolex explorer but changed my mind and bought the submariner but having watched your duel I'm thinking of buying the Seiko 033 as an everyday watch as opposed to the Rolex explorer too much money to get abused , I know this is again destroying a good watch but what can you do . The chances are I will buy the Seiko and love it and end up buying a Casio data bank but you have steered me in the right direction thanks K

[@tezzanewton]

james heaney hey mate, I’m a mechanical tradesman working on underground mining equipment. I wear all my watches to work, and usually a different one every day. I simply cut the bottom off a sock and slide that up over my wrist to protect my watches. So far it’s working great. I will admit that when I’m using a rattle gun or doing some hammering I take my watches off. I hope this helps mate.

[@deejaywon]

Just get both, you know you can afford it

[@daniellee8162]

Rolex is the only brand (maybe Patek too) that could not get perfect score on each category and still end at a 10/10 overall.

[@CommandoMaster]

I might get a SARB033 for Christmas...

[@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.

[@u.u.u9969]

Too small for a big man like myself. 38 & 36 I just cant but 42mm is the sweet spot for me. But they a beautiful watches that are complete getters from women

[@billywhite4046]

Do you sell the valour strap in a Zulu version? I need it in a 20mm to fit my Seiko Flightmaster.

[@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!!

[@rainappleby]

Citizen NB1050-59E, Citizen's answer to the SARB 38mm.

[@antoshahorosha]

Price informs, or distorts (however you want to look at it), perception.

[@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.

[@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.

[@miikavuorio6925]

But the SARB033 is just so sexy.

[@latinxl416]

Can we get a shout out to the Canadian viewers who have to pay extraordinary prices for every watch you talk about? Exchange rate is pricing us out of the market it seems like for most of the pieces. Love your work though. Tissot really spoke to me when watching some of your stuff on entry level. It hit the old corazon...

[@PaoloMartines]

HI there, I own a sarb033, I love it, but I don't use it too much cause 38 is not so much on my wrist. Can you give me an advice for a same style in 41 or 40 mm? Thanks

[@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.

[@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!

[@lshin80]

OK, this time I'll forgive you, but don't you ever betray Seiko again. You've been warned. LOL

[@theurbangentry]

LOL ;-) Duly noted. Thank you Luca. Best regards, TGV

[@kanjobahn]

Seikoholic detected!

[@KaranBhansali01]

Just the video I was looking for to push me towards the SARB033 instead of getting a cheaper Rolex Explorer Homage watch.

[@jonathanelewis9134]

Very good review. I really like Seiko timepieces. Cheers!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Jonathane, you are in good company here then! :D Best regards, TGV

[@kbeightyseven1783]

and i wish the alpinist was available in different dial colours

[@othonmartinez3084]

guess what.

[@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)?

[@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.

[@albypansa]

I would say...if you don't have the money get the Seiko. If you have the money get the Rolex. If you have money and sense, get both!

[@ShayAllen1973]

A bigger factor for me is the comparisons each invites. The Explorer doesn't compare well to other modern Rolexes and doesn't compare well to vintage Explorers. The Explorer almost has the homage problem. The Seiko is its own watch. I've worn neither (I know that's a peeve of yours), but from here I'd take the Seiko.

[@omkarchauhan7675]

No doubt the Rolex is the better watch. The bigger question is, Is it ten times better than the Seiko.

[@ゆささゆ]

Of course Explorer is a well made watch and polishing quality is better on Rolex, but I don't find so much differences in other aspects except it is Rolex.

[@DeadReckoner]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@happyspanners]

A new video about the best Seikos out there now they seem to have discontinued the SARB033 and the SNKL23, both of which were extremely popular and sought after.

[@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!

[@roybriggs1864]

Went and tried on the explorer, and then tried on the Sarb033. I'm surprised to say that I'm buying a Sarb033

[@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.

[@kbeightyseven1783]

I honestly think if the names were swapped over on the dials nobody would say the sarb033 wasn't a rolex

[@bigwangmark]

Just re-watching this video all these years later and you can change that X-factor for the Seiko SARB033 given it's an iconic and highly desirable seiko these days.

[@mischavajagich1268]

I like and respect everything about your presentations,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,you are a very fine person to boot,,,,,,,,,,I wish you success and happiness,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Mischa Vajagich

[@NaNa-wj8tw]

If you’d have put that beautiful strap from the Rolex on the Seiko I’d take the Seiko all day.

[@scottparis6355]

You should do the same comparison of the Explorer with one of the Seiko SARX or SARY watches. Better movements than the SARB, slightly nicer designs (I think), improved finish, screw-type bracelets, and the prices skyrocket to 600 or 800 dollars. And, yes, the Seiko movements are all "in-house." (It seemed as though you may have given the Rolex extra points for that, and you shouldn't have.) I'm not a Seiko fan-boy. I just think that the Explorer is overpriced by a factor of about 3. Many of it's supposed advantages are more about marketing than any real superiority. For instance, have you ever seen a corroded case made of 316L steel? Neither have I. All of the Explorere's advantages will then be in the intangibles like "history."

[@Jose-t5z5z]

Surely SEIKO SARB033 wins because of the price range.

[@mauriciotorres5875]

Did you know that a 7,000 USD swiss watch costs less than 80 USD to manufacture? You've been paying for Advertising and Marketing expenses, rather than Product features or Watchmaking expertise.

[@dannydogs5446]

I own both the sarb 033 & the 035 & the sarg009 that I think is more of a Rolex Explorer. What do u think? Also what's ur advice about selling these 3 models since they have appreciated in value since they r discontinued from the line & r getting more rare?

[@krekmanski]

I hope you read this, TGV : Since the SARB033 has been discontinued, what whould you say is "The Ultimate Everyday watch Under $500" ? Maybe you can do a video if not with a review of it - maybe just some thoughts and insight on the matter ? :) Also - it's about time that you show us Hugo's collection with some wristshots :D

[@airrun76]

Predator music.. Nice. Great touch TGV.

[@jims4539]

Scores are ok - my question with $500 v $5000 if the $500 watch company put in another $200 -$300? A good watch could become a great watch and then if the company restricted the numbers produced the "got to have it" factor would bring the scores closer. So would the new $700 - $800 watch draw even?

[@Lopezglezcarlos]

Hi TGV! I am considering to buy the SARB033 through a Japanese dealer. In previous videos you said that was easy to get it from Japan, can you recommend me where? I would really appreciate it. Thank you and keep going with the channel. Love it.

[@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!

[@myoptionstreamz]

Hello !What do you think about the Hamilton Jazzmaster Viewmatic H32665131 i buy for 520€ and next i am looking for the sinn 104 😊

[@wendyandgeoffpattison2610]

People have got to stop falling for the hype. Tristan, your value for money comparison should have scored the Roly at maybe 2. And that dial looks like it was designed by a child with those funky looking numerals. And no date. Even if the Rolex was the same price as the Seiko, I would buy the Seiko in a heartbeat. I do enjoy your videos T. Thanks, Geoff.

[@marchills4131]

How can the Rolex not win out in this comparo? But I think the gap may have narrowed somewhat since Seiko dropped the 033/035 from their lineup. It's certainly talked about a lot more by watch enthusiasts and has become more sought after. I think that bumps its X-factor score up to a 9. And I might suggest this particular Rolex gets only a 6 in terms of value. The foremost justification for Rolex's stratospheric pricing is it's well deserved association with luxury. That value aspect comes across most strongly on Rolex's more ornate/elaborate pieces. It doesn't hold up as strongly on a more simple tool watch like the Explorer. In the end, I'd score the Seiko an 86 and the Rolex an 88.

[@Lion_ofJudah]

I own the SARB and some other seikos and orients, I love the Explorer and maybe if I sell all my watches I can afford one but I am afraid that I wont need any other watch if I get an Explorer and thats frightening, maybe on my retirement day I will gift myself one, till then, I want to "explore"....:)

[@conradcoolerfiend]

freaking love the explorer. It's gonna be my first Rolex and hopefully lifetime watch.

[@oldiesfreek]

You spend $4500 more for those 4 points...yup.

[@bluemystic7501]

You're paying the extra money for a lot more than 'points'.

[@phillippugh2161]

bluemystic7501 not really your paying for the name. Grand Seiko would be the better comparison

[@bluemystic7501]

Pugh - Sure, branding is a powerful thing but the Rolex brand is what it is because of their attention to detail and the outright quality of their product. Just wait until the word gets out about GS's quality and their attention to detail and then watch their prices rise with the prestige of the brand.

[@Myrslokstok]

Peter Picallo Well not realy when value for money was 10/7 then it is moore like 7p. But crazy yes

[@MarcoJesusPerez]

I'm surprised that the SARB isn't regulated. This is an expensive thing to do? I've never wandered beyond the 7s26, so I'm relatively clueless when it comes to regulation... and maintenance ;)

[@stig5763]

To be fair, Seiko is offering the same product for 10% of the price. Is it worth it to buy the Rolex? Absolutely! I would be honored to own both. Reluctantly, I currently have a SARB033 en route to my home. Perhaps it will be possible to find a grand Seiko titanium bracelet to accompany it 😁

[@linkydinkydoodledumplin]

Two questions: 1. What is the brand and color of the Sarb033 star? 2. Does anyone make a better quality , but not too chunky, stainless strap for the SARB? Thank you!

[@bryantherocker]

The Value of an Explorer IMO should be 6 or 5/10 ... you can buy a Car with the Price of that little watch, its technology and quality it offers is not worth the asking Price. Your paying for the brand.

[@shawnlavigne9069]

To me the real difference is what's under the hood, the 6rxx vs the 313x. There's really no comparison in that department, the rolex movement is possibly the best auto on the planet. I do believe that the rolex movement is 10x better. I'd trust the rolex with my life, but with the sarb I always wonder. There's just way too many reports online of wonky 6r movements. I own a sarb and really enjoy it, but I always wonder about the 6r inside. When I had an air-king with 3130 I never had any doubts, ever!

[@robertofisher]

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

[@m2pozad]

Sorry TGV, but if one takes into account the cost of maintenance, both in terms of money spent on servicing, and the additional care and concern needed to protect the very expensive Rolex from damage and theft, the SARB line and much of the low and mid tier Japanese watches are the only ones which can even be used as originally intended. That freedom of use simply no longer exists with high priced European watches. This is a huge negative, and a fatal loss of design concept. Leaving one to live in a virtual world of make believe, emphasizing soft psychological benefits such as heritage, prestige, and even silly, total fantasy, movie connections.

[@johnnybgood7812]

Much as you have to admire the superb quality of the Rolex the thing that really puts me off is the text above the 6 o’clock position. Whilst I realise it is a mark of an external certification of accuracy “superlative chronograph, officially certified” just seems a bit unnecessary to me. The fact it costs so much more and, for me at least, looks less classy because of that text is a big turn off. Great comparison though, thanks.

[@iAMChrisCC]

I'd be interested to understand the cost to produce each watch - Rolex undoubtedly more, but probably not as bigger difference than people expect. Both mass produced and highly automated factories, I expect.

[@jstanley011]

I love Seikos, I have, do, and will own Seikos. But there is no way that Sarb is comparable to that Explorer. Yes a Mclaren costs a lot more to buy and maintain than a Vette, because it is a Mclaren. On paper, the difference between a minor league player and a major league player looks slight. The minor leaguer only lags a little bit, until you look at their salaries. I love Vettes, I want want to own as many Vettes as possible. But don't tell me my Vette rivals a Mclaren. They aren't in the same league.

[@therealplato4406]

I'm really quite fond of the SARB, At that price point, you can't ask for a more beautiful piece. The Rolex is lovely as well, however I'm more of a Seiko man myself.