Why we need to STOP comparing Grand Seiko to Rolex | SBGA415 Four Seasons - Winter

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Continue the conversation on WatchCrunch: www.watchcrunch.com/Max/posts/should-we-be-comparing-grand-seiko-to-rolex-2097

[@iBlinkTVChannel]

I live by Seattle also - what’s the best location to buy and shop Grand Seiko for us? I’m looking at the SBGA415, SLGA009, SLGA007

[@lotterynj]

GS all day every day. Rolex is over hyped period. The amount of polish in a GS dial alone has Rolex making dials with a laser.

[@silverghost4206]

You stand correct. Plus ill add over priced. The maker of this video commented on every single comment except yours. Hmmm... Wonder why?. These youtube "watch experts" are all full of shit. I stopped watching them. Cant say nothing bad or the truth about rolex!. You will be hanged an judged!. Its all nonsense.

[@reppasbubba]

I want to agree with you so bad. My problem is if I ever need to liquidate my assets I won’t get anything near my initial cost. Grand seiko doesn’t hold its value, at least yet

[@gito4130]

Yes I feel the same way Bubba I want to agree so bad with Dario but cannot afford to spend 5500 on a GS and see it depreciate 35%. Besides a Rolex Explorer, Submariner or Seadweller are considered classics. A Spring Drive GS is a great addition to any collection plus they are fun to have. But the questions is if you could only own one luxury watch under 9K (Retail) which one will it be. The answer most likely will be Rolex Explorer or Submariner. And let's not forget Omega Speedster or Aquaterra. However without talking availability Rolex is #1 Omega #2 GS Close 3rd. Own all if you can.

[@happiness8138]

Damn that is a Grand Toyota Camry!!!... Said no one literally... No one. Same reaction to grand seiko. Because its a seiko. Japanese got the world saying oh what a feeling.. Yes feeling bored of toyotas and seikos.

[@jrsands]

@@happiness8138 buy a GS because some of their designs are by far the most beautiful.

[@oldirtybezel3879]

The thing I like best about GS is how they tend to stick with an overall very clean, elegant design, which allows their amazing dials to take center stage. They aren’t overly flashy or gauche. There’s an understated elegance to them that you can almost miss at first glance, and they need to be examined before you can appreciate how truly impressive they are.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Gotta say this GS has grown on me, and that's rare

[@arctic_skies]

So what you wanted to say is GS are beyond boring :)

[@astrayproductions]

Seikos have the best dials

[@diavalus]

@@arctic_skies *classy

[@skzion2]

@@WatchCrunchOfficial An honest assessment. What you're getting is more viewing time, which allows you to see planned effects as they become clear. If you visit a Japanese garden you find such planned effects everywhere. The same applies to their architecture. See enough of that and you'll become sensitized to that kind of thing. So, it becomes very important when the underside of one watch hand is reflected on a lower watch hand with no distortion but with less light. The endless ways the hands and indexes reflect light become a source of pleasure, as does the interaction between dial texture, amount of light, and warmth or coldness of that light. These effects are very important to the aesthetic. GS uses certain hands repeatedly because all the effects are understood to the artist-designers. Also, every change in hand design will likely change their weight. The GS movements are optimized for very specific weights of hands. In my view, GS is as much a precision engineering and industrial design company as a watchmaker. That's why a Spring Drive movement can exist in watches actually available to the public. It's not just the movement. For this moment to drive a watch, there must be extreme precision in the functioning of the other components. This watch sips barely any power. Mine was exactly on time over a five-day period, based on an atomic clock.

[@jsampagaerice]

Both are awesome brands, both can coexist comfortably in a collection. Both make stellar watches. I like to judge each piece separately as all brands can have stars and duds.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Definitely, I feel like it takes an important spot in mine

[@Alenagracediaz]

I agree!!

[@js0988]

Both cost the same to make but one charges $5000 and the other $30000. With Rolex you pay for the brand, nothing else!

[@mohamada2177]

wait is there something way more affordable say ur 27 just outta college got an ok job and want to buy just 1 cool all year round great watch up to i guess ... 1k? 2 maybe if its fire fire.. im getting the feeling the minimum for real dopeness seems to be 5 k... or 6k for that cartier watch, any calls for something sleeper 1k 2k mega fire?

[@robertschmidt9584]

The bracelets, the bracelets from GS still need work! Everything else is just about perfect!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

That's the low hanging fruit

[@alexsystems2001]

@@WatchCrunchOfficial it’s what detracted me from getting the GS that I sort of want. I want the SBGC221 I saw one at my local dealer and it had a pinned bracelet with no on the fly adjustment. I love the look, the spring drive and the complications of the watch as well as the thought of the accuracy. BUT I work a blue collar job and my wrist swells and shrinks from day to day and activity to activity. I was at the watch dealer and I currently have a submariner I got 2 years ago, I love the watch AND the bracelet so the dealer told me they could order me any DateJust. I couldn’t pass it up. I got me a two tone DateJust, rose gold, chocolate dial, on a jubilee bracelet, I like that even the jubilee bracelet has the quick adjustment to it. I will say I still WANT the SBGC221 but until I stop finding other watches I want a little more, the SBGC221 will have to wait.

[@OBWAT]

The bracelets are great! They could be improved, but they are still great

[@marvyeap]

AGREE! For me, esthetics wise of the bracelets keeps me from pulling the trigger. Probable because it has no taper. But this is just my opinion.

[@briancunningham9269]

@@WatchCrunchOfficial where did you get your strap? It looks great! I’m looking for one for my spring SBGA413.

[@muyuanhe356]

"Why we need to STOP comparing Grand Seiko to Rolex" Proceeds to COMPARE GS to Rolex in every aspect. I knew it's a click bait even before clicking the video.

[@ItsNeverTooHot4Leather]

I wouldn't describe Grand Seiko as a "new kid on the block." Grand Seiko have been taking the Swiss to the Alpine woodshed for a long time. I think the problem is that we create this conception of Grand Seiko as comparable at all with the watches produced by Rolex (or other Swiss watch companies) in terms of brand image and popularity. The Grand Seikos from the 1960s to 1970s defeated the Swiss watch industry in movement accuracy, case design, and case finishing. But Grand Seiko has never had the brand cache that Swiss watch companies (like Rolex) have had, and that's why we can't compare them......at least not yet! Take popular branding out of the equation and Grand Seiko watches are far superior than ANY watch produced by Rolex.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Yeah I think that could've been articulated better, I mean to say they got some things to fix before they are at Rolex level. Buy they got the craftsmanship nailed

[@ItsNeverTooHot4Leather]

@@WatchCrunchOfficial No worries, and I enjoyed your take on the Grand Seiko vs. Rolex conversation. Grand Seiko do indeed have some critical issues to fix, especially their bracelets. Rolex has some of the best bracelets, but Grand Seiko's bracelets are not what I would consider even close to luxury level.

[@seaweed719]

Rolex is highly recognizable not because they create the best or the most beautiful watches, but because they invested a lot in advertisements since the beginning.

[@donaldneo4317]

Absolutely agree that GS can't just add a gmt bezel on their case and called it a sports watch. Gotta try harder on their sport watches which is the mainstream now. Would seriously consider a GS with Spring Drive if that design happen.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Right! Seiko/GS dive watches look the same to me, with 20x price diff

[@louiscyfer6944]

@@WatchCrunchOfficial what? sbgc 201 or 223? or 231?

[@kingoftampa]

Imo the heritage line is where its at. Tbh i bought my SBGA413 over a Dj41 because i wasnt going to play waiting games, and looking back, i dont think I settled, i stepped up. The finish on some of these GS pieces is so much closer to that of Patek or something of that caliber than rolex imo

[@donaldneo4317]

@@kingoftampa I do not like the heritage case shape and the snowflake feels too big when I tried it on else I might have gotten it. No doubt the GS dial details and finishing is great but there is always a deal breaker for me when I was considering the 3 watches below: 1) Snowflake - case shape, size and bracelet. 2) Skyflake - the power reserve on the dial seems to be darker blue tone when viewed at many angles. 3) SBGY007 - too dressy and only WR 3bar All the above are great watches, its just me that I can't get over the above.

[@cedarcanoe]

GS is far superior to Rolex imo. Just look at the number of suppliers Rolex needed to buy to become ”inhouse”.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Superior watchmaking, yes. But bracelet, sports models design, marketing. All these things they have hiccups with. One day they'll be there with Rolex 👍

[@skzion2]

@@WatchCrunchOfficial I found the "diver's" Spring Drive watch appealing in photos. Given the increased price of Seikos nowadays, the GS was priced competitively (SBGA463). It's made of titanium (important for repeated dive use) with a black dial. Given that a real dive watch must be designed to withstand huge pressures, this kind of watch is generally heavy. Titanium reduces the weight needed. It's a very GS approach to the problem. And it's not a case of just adding a bezel and calling it a dive watch.

[@gito4130]

@@skzion2 Tudor Pelagos Best tool diver watch.

[@samscorner6111]

I’d like to own a Rolex one day, but I’m glad that the first “expensive” watch I purchased was the GS shunbun. The GS dials are just… jaw dropping.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

It's art on the wrist 👌

[@Sams911]

Rolex is a benchmark... and Grand Seiko has met and in many cases exceeded the benchmark.

[@josephknecht4272]

What do I think? -- you asked. I think that Grand Seiko annihilates Rolex!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Nooooooo😂

[@ClassicalProtestant]

Rolex is King. GS is the Emperor. Cultural Implications applicable. They both have a rich cultural story that beautifully expanded beyond their borders. I wouldn’t compare because they don’t. They are unique and both have weaknesses. But Rolex is King. Even the haters know it.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Well said 👍

[@lengue2001]

It is king for the people who doesn’t know about watches. There is nothing special about a mass produced watch.

[@ClassicalProtestant]

@@lengue2001 yes it’s no Roger Smith right? I’d agree with you there. But Roger would say there’s no Roger Smith without Rolex…in other words Ferrari today (commercialized or not) doesn’t take away from why Ferrari is Ferrari. In my opinion, there’s a dialogue because Rolex well is Rolex. Especially if someone cannot stand them…it only proves the point more. Personal opinion.

[@lengue2001]

@@ClassicalProtestant I am not a hater, I just say that there are more beautiful and luxurious watches for the same or less for those who know about watches. Ferrari is not an example of your point, I would say a Lexus.

[@brianmsahin]

OK. I have the same GS. Beautiful! You cannot compare the two for one major reason. The Rolex is a mass produced robot production line million plus per year fashion watch whereas the GS is a work of artistic endeavour. Some people bring up the bracelet as an excuse for it being better, but that's like saying the tires on a mass produced Ford Focus are nicer than the tires on an individually built Ferrari, so you should buy a Ford Focus. Just my opinion.

[@joeskeptical4762]

*Agreed. The two watches, Rolex and GS, are different beasts. Rolex best compares to Omega, but for prices & availability. GS compares more to JLC, Zenith, Glashütte, PP, VC, AP, UN & IWC except for the Spring Drive movement, which has no comparable alternative.*

[@PersonaN007Grata]

Maybe Accutron movement is somewhat similar to Spring Drive but they use a capacitor instead of a main spring.

[@ashleyslingers2814]

Fully agree. This message needs to resonate better in the watch community. GS themselves are not even focused on comparing themselves to Rolex, so why should the consumers. GS is fully focused on the artisanal aspect of watchmaking and valorizing craftmanship. If that's what you appreciate as a consumer - GS has most likely pulled you in.

[@MrDead1975]

personally I'm sick of the Rolex hype and price pumping of a glorified tool watch. even at retail my money would be going elsewhere

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

You are not alone bud 😞

[@skzion2]

I had a watch fanatic get excited when he saw my 413. He didn't know what it was, at first, because he'd not seen the model, but its shimmering and color changes in different light obviously got his attention. He wears a graduation Rolex every day for sentimental reasons and also for its readability during surgery. I showed the same watch to someone who was not in to watches and he just didn't get it. I showed it to a jeweler who carries only a few Swiss lines (mostly selling diamonds), and he said he didn't get into Seikos, but the color was nice. There you have it. Virtually no watch snob would dismiss this watch (the 415 is also superb), but others just don't seem to get it, unless they are given some viewing time. Am I upset? Not really. I'm happy to fly under the radar. But if you are not, this brand is not for you.

[@marcjames3487]

I like your thinking. The GS is definately growing on me.

[@camperp195]

To be honest,i wouldnt even consider a rolex,it doesnt even come close to grand seiko quality

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

GS finishing is 👌 but Rolex has other fortes as mentioned in the vid

[@elefantrising]

Owning both I have to say they are completely different beasts. Rolex is a solid watch extremely robust engineering and classic design where GS with its spring drive is pretty much the leading innovator in Horology in the past century. Rolex really has no comparison because you can’t even purchased them these days so it’s a null point to me it’s the best dead brand in the world.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Yeah spring drive is so impressive to me, the more I learn about it 👍

[@jalanc5095]

How is it a dead brand if demand is out stripping supply?

[@elefantrising]

@@jalanc5095 it is dead because you can not purchase their product. Eventually old customers will tire and new cuatomers will find other brands. IMHO

[@Roughdraft214]

If not dead then definitely off-putting. I was saving up for an Explorer thinking I really wanted one but I can’t give my money to someone who won’t take it. If anything I imagine here recently that Rolex has helped GS sales. I bought two myself this year.

[@valkyrst620]

I don't understand why any watch collector feels the need to run down any brand that someone else likes. I agree with you. Buy the watch because you like. It's not a competition.

[@jamesmason4420]

The snowflake spring drive makes me giddy every time I see that admiral blue second hand gliding around the mesmerizing textured dial… I almost have to remember to breath as I find I hold my breath in amazement!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Well said, wanna write my scripts? 😉

[@deansusec8745]

Rolex being better than GS just because more people have heard of it is not an argument. Most people in the world know Mcdonalds, but almost every burger place in every town has better food than McD.

[@musemellow]

All fair points, but why do we need to STOP comparing them? The reason that people are comparing them IS because they're different beasts. Looking at different perspective, if GS is following Rolex's footpath, in terms of Heritage, Marketing, Demand and Availability, then it'll be always be behind Rolex's shadow. That's why you never hear about Omega watch as a Rolex-killer.

[@ShiroKage009]

Rolex's design hasn't changed since the last time they came up with the Oyster case. It has been so stagnant for decades. It's an amazing design, but it's the same. Praising them for tiny adjustments to the lugs when they were already great is something I don't understand. I need to see some innovation, some new case shapes, more variety to their dial finishes, more complications, things like that. They don't even bother to try and finish their movements to show them with an exhibition case-back, whereas GS learned to showcase the movement by removing the big print for a couple of years now. Comparing the two brands is inevitable when they have similar price brackets. GS wins hands down if the watch is on a strap. If it's on a bracelet, it'll come down to the bracelet because, if we're being honest, GS's bracelets are crap. The last few releases actually have decent bracelets, but that needs to be all their watches and not just a few before this becomes a non-issue.

[@thenotanclan]

Mate - you can’t say a Grand Seiko is ‘a bit rough around the edges’ - you just can’t - compare one under a macro lens next to a Rolex

[@PhantomMagician]

I dont' want GS to become like Rolex. I hope they put every resource to development, NOT to branding. I don't care about brand recognition at all. Let the quality and only quality speak for them. Branding thru hype marketing and endorsement are just to fool the masses. Quality is everything, every other thing don't matter at all. In my opinion. Compete only with the highest quality possible with comparable price.

[@HDSTACK]

Once again your tone, perfect analogies and straightforward attention to detail in your videos are spot on. Appreciate your taking the balanced approach in laying out the point you are making on why Grand Seiko is not and never will be Rolex. Other than both being significant watch companies they are different animals in how they maneuver in the market. Well done!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thanks! Glad you found my ramblings cogent 😅

[@jackster285]

The main reason you can't compare Grand Seiko (or any other brand) with Rolex is that you can't buy Rolex's, at least brand new ones. So it's really a moot topic

[@enriqueparedespinel1694]

GS will become the luxury watch from this decade and on.

[@kelechinobi3085]

OK had to drop this extra in. Let's unpick some of your points. By the way full disclosure I'm a Seiko fan boy. Not necessarily GS though I love it as a brand. 1. History Fact is Seiko predates Rolex, and by the time seiko (as GS) were making award winning movements Rolex was still casing movements from others. I love the way you said "introduced men's wristwatches" made me chuckle because of course no one can claim to have INVENTED men's wristwatches as that's nonsense. Blaise Pascal is rumoured to have worn his watch on his wrist. And indeed men's wristwatches increased in popularity from the mid 19th century when soldiers found it easier. Seikos place in history, with quartz and spring drive on the other hand is assured. 2. Design Another interesting one. Up until probably early 80s most Rolex watches used one case Design.. the oyster case. And yes they did "slap on a bezel" and call it a diver. They also increased water resistance as you need to. There is more Design innovation in the Seiko 5 series than all of Rolex lineup (which even now is essentially 2 case designs). 3. Cache I'm not sure when the proletariat became appropriate arbiters of haute horology. Ask any of your non-watch friends about FP or ALS. Go on 😃

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

Max Considering we weren’t comparing Grand Seiko to Rolex You did a Grand Job of comparing them.

[@Roughdraft214]

I think it’s fair to compare the two companies, in fact everyone does it all the time and while the two brands are very different they’re both luxury watch makers. Is one better than the other? Not really, because that answer will vary from person to person, but Rolex is the most recognized watch brand in the world, so people who are spending thousands on a watch want to know that their money is being well spent, and how better to know this than by buying a brand that everyone knows. Design wise, and the culture of the two companies, are like night and day, and for me, I’d like to think that my watch is an extension of my personality, and to that effect I picture myself to be elegant, but humble and low-key. Needless to say, you can imagine which brand I prefer.

[@terrymoser2028]

My sports watch days are in the past. Want simple well built on my wrist. There is always room for improvement. That goes for the person as well as the watch he chooses to put on his wrist. Be mindful!

[@rodpanhard]

The bulk of the money you spend on a Grand Seiko goes towards the watch, the bulk of the money you spend on a Rolex goes towards marketing and maintaining the image.

[@LimitedWard]

I think the title of this video could have been worded better. It's natural to compare GS to Rolex, as you've demonstrated for over 9 minutes. What I think this video was pushing back on was the notion that GS is the "Rolex of Japan".

[@LimitedWard]

I checked out watchcrunch, and while the UI was very slick, I still think it needs work. Most of the posts I saw were silly polls like "Do you prefer bracelets or straps" while the rest were just wrist shots. What I'd really like to see is deeper conversations about watches and horology.

[@watchroll3310]

People compare GS to Rolex just as the Ferrari / Honda NSX phenomenon exist. The contrast of what they represent is undeniable.

[@xMoac]

Both great but buying a Rolex for about double the standard recommended retail price is not worth it. If I could buy a datejust for retail price that would be great.

[@96kyh]

Not Rolex or Omega. This watch is my holy grail. A mission in life.

[@dkiselja9290]

GS bracelets are of superb quality. I have never needed any adjustment... GS sits on wrist so well and stable, super comfortable. Rolex no comment... past...

[@gilbertrose7147]

Great treatment on this-thanks! You have given me much to think about here, as I find my tastes in watches evolving. I have owned and enjoyed my Submariner for 30 years but increasingly have been intrigued by Grand Seiko in their attention to detail in their dials and Spring Drive and Quartz GMTs. Today, my Subby spends most of its time in a winder while what I used to do with my Subby is done by my Sinn. I had a Lexus once and the Grand Seiko reminds me of this! If the right GS comes along I’ll buy it!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Lexus is a good analogy, their finishing is really second to none! If you are into that 😉. Very different brands, catering to different aesthetics

[@gito4130]

@@WatchCrunchOfficial Keep your Sub and add a GS spring drive. Why not own a Ferrari and an NSX if you can.

[@FirstLast-rt5qc]

Grand Seiko is definitely on the cusp of positioning itself as a true luxury brand. It already has far more class than Rolex. It will hopefully focus on dials and hands while differentiating itself from Seiko.

[@simonwright6882]

The main difference between GS and rolex is that you can actually buy a GS at an ad. I have the 415 and absolutely love it .

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Sweet, watch twins 😆

[@gito4130]

Yes thats true but you have lost about 30% of its value. Im not rich and if I could only own one piece it would be a Rolex Explorer, Submariner or Sea Dweller. I get to enjoy it without loosing money.

[@simonwright6882]

@@gito4130 Don't get me wrong, if I get a chance at retail I'll get a submariner. But the only way you loose money on a watch is if you sell it and I'm a buy and keep type of collector.

[@rangersmith4652]

The reason we compare things is to discover the ways in which they resemble each other and the ways in which they don't. To say Rolex and GS are too different to compare is silly. They both show the time of day. They both do this by presenting an analog of how we describe and measure time: things going around other things. They are both worn on the wrist. They have those basic characteristics in common, so the ways in which they're different are relatively far less significant. You say we should stop making this comparison, then you proceed to make it, in great detail.

[@sylinmino]

Hey Max! Correction: the Grand Seiko SBGA413/415 bracelet does taper! Not super dramatically but there definitely is one! But also I completely agree that the clasp not being flush with the case is super annoying. Thankfully they've fixed it on the Birch watches.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Yeah I remeasured and you are right, it goes down to 18 at the clasp 😁

[@DiegoFernandoCarrion]

The production value on this video is great! A great video editorial too. Subbed.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thank you! Appreciate that and more to come!

[@phantomphotography7392]

Seiko's Prospex LX are the divers/GMT's Grand Seiko should be making. They're stunning and beautifully constructed.

[@mrbadguysan]

As long as Grand Seiko keeps making a Date-Just that’s better than Rolex’s in every way and nothing else worth owning in my opinion, I’m going to keep comparing Grand Seiko to Rolex.

[@milanchristi7939]

"Those sore, chocolate-eating losers..." brilliant!! I really appreciate your perspective. Honest and well thought out. Keep it up!! I, too, am a spring drive fan - on my wish list for sure. (Along with a bunch of alpenhorn honking brands!)

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thanks Milan! I left out cheese references🧀

[@Beastcoast111]

I just traded the cheapest, old Breitling. For the cheapest, old, Grand Seiko and man what a beautiful watch.

[@adnoh]

What’s your definition of a tapering bracelet Max? The 62GS cases are 21mm at the lugs and 18 at the buckle.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

You're right, just measured it with my caliper. Guess I needed a bit more taper, it's the lip of the clasp that annoys me 🤷‍♂️

[@brightonwang1]

Great videos. I was in Ginza last week and was in the GS store. After seeing your GS vids, I bought the Cherry Blossom. Keep up the good work!

[@RedwoodAggie]

Movement wise, I think they're up there, or even better than Rolex. Design-wise, I think they aren't as well rounded in styles, but they win on dials! They really are different companies, but I'm glad people are starting to learn about them. When I was in a local Watches of Switzerland recently with my father and his girlfriend, his girlfriend had never heard of Grand Seiko before (my father had only because I had mentioned it). I think that's an advantage for people who still want to walk into an AD and pick a watch up.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Absolutely agree. They are long on craftsmanship but short on design to me.

[@clark3830]

To a Vietnam Veteran as myself, calling the Turtle/ Captain Willard watch among other Seiko watches LUGAGE is totally improper. When you have lived life with a real history, you will know why Seiko or GS honors history. By the way, Rolex power system can NOT even come close.

[@bullsharkreef]

The problem with Grand Seiko is the name. People associate the Seiko name with beater watches featuring quirky proportions and questionable quality control. They should have done like what some car manufacturers did: change the name to something entirely different. If I ever bought one, I see myself forever explaining that "It's not a Seiko, it's a Grand Seiko".

[@earthenjadis8199]

Isn't a lot of this comparison driven by Grand Seiko's own North American marketing efforts? There's a big push for GS to get a bigger slice of the luxury pie since the market for lower and mid-end pieces (where they excelled) is nowhere near as profitable as the luxury segments over the past decade.

[@horsthartmann]

Hi Max, two diffrent top brands..price and quality is why we ll continue compareing. Spring Dirve is the advantage, so satisfying .. Braclet, Clasp and lack of Loome are GS tasks.. Nice snow in the sun shots..enjoy. Super comparisons, thank you.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thanks! Yes I forgot to mention no lume 👍

[@andreimadasov4955]

Just found your channel and immediately subbed. Amazing work, delivery, and editing. Keep up the great work!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thanks Andrei! Welcome 👍

[@gthack371]

"Sore, chocolate eating losers" 😂 The work that is obviously put into every aspect of a GS movement, dial and hands is just lovely to see. Value for money might seem a weird thing in a luxury watch, particularly in the times we live in, but for me I'd buy a GS over any similarly priced rival. And quite a few more costly ones.

[@folag]

I have both a Explorer 2 as well as a Snowflake. They're completely different, must not be compared. Wearing the Explorer 2 is like driving my 911 Ruf Rt12. Wearing the Snowflake is like driving my Audi R8 V10. Before seeing your video, comparing the two, trying to figure out which is better never occurred to me. They're so very different from each other, and ought to be simply enjoyed accordingly.

[@litan114]

I agree what Nico said - Grand Seiko is just an expensive Seiko.

[@mark19441944]

My understanding is that men started wearing wrist watches as a result of their experience in the trenches in WWI. I’m not sure Rolex had anything to do with it.

[@winc06]

You might have also contrasted the manufacturing process, i.e. Rolex giant automated factory vs. much more hand work by Grand Seiko. And which is more exclusive? People look at a Rolex to verify that it is a Rolex. They already know what it looks like. No one says "Oh, look at that." like they do when they see the Spring Drive sweep second hand and then the beautiful dial.

[@MauiTheBengalCat]

If I am in love with my first impulsively bought Seiko sbtr029, I can only imagine how breathtaking the Grand Seiko looks and feels like. Thank you for the wonderful review of GS❤

[@gordonmculloch4904]

Grand seiko is a stand alone brand. Works of art.

[@sanjsharma9903]

Buy a Rolex if you wanna impress your friends buy a Grand Sieko if you wanna impress yourself.

[@ES-qe1nh]

no. You can buy both for both reasons

[@pelilin2519]

Everyone know Rolex as investment watch but it need a watch enthusiast to know Grand Seiko.

[@chrishemming9976]

There’s no doubt that Rolex have some absolutely fire designs but GS is a brand which personally has connected with me the most… I love the technology that goes into them, the fact they’re all hand built and that the dials are so unique… granted their divers or chrono’s are ugly but I think they realise how niche a watch maker they are… reminds me of when Aston Martin made the Rapide or Porsche made the Panamera

[@Lamar-wq7jj]

Finally a reasonable clever statement.seiko will never equal rolex

[@vinhhuynh1205]

There is no comparison between the two when it comes to quality and polishing. GS is far superior!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Agreed, this watch thrives under macro 👍

[@Ofenlicht]

Great video as a fan of watches from both brands I wish we could appreciate them for their merits rather than try to tear one or the other down.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Exactly 💯

[@wagsbass]

I would say Grand Seiko absolutely crushes Rolex going by the evidence provided by you. Yes the bracelets can improve but even Rolex fanboys would secretly admit that Spring Drive is the most significant advancement in watch technology in recent memory. Leave it to Kevin O Leary to popularise GS, he is doing a wonderful job of it

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Yes GS out does Rolex on many fronts, Kevin is in the know 😁

[@partybees8856]

Thank you! Most GS sports watches remind me a lot more of an Aqua Terra than any Rolex model. I prefer Rolex (like I can afford either lol) because they prioritize case thinness and bracelet execution where Seiko and GS do not. If a watch doesn't have 200m of water resistance and isn't a Chrono, it shouldnt be taller than 12mm, even better if it was less than 11.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Good points, patiently waiting for Rolex demand to come back down to earth 🤔😆

[@leafboy3967]

For me, the mechanical feat of the Spring drive makes up for the thickness.

[@crudeprelude]

Still happy with this purchase? I’ve narrowed down to this and the Sbga373. Both beautiful in their one way.

[@kk-ec9rt]

Not the main point of the video, but the comparison between each brands' dials reminded me of the difference between english gardens and japanese gardens. English gardens are literally a natural forest whereas Japanese gardens are more symbolic.

[@daveyoder9231]

Only one itsy bitsy clarification- cachet is perceived excellence, cache is where one hides or stores things. Good luck with the new platform. Still miss the old logo and name.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

I thought about googling that but ran out of time 😂

[@daveyoder9231]

@@WatchCrunchOfficial No worries! What's one misplaced noun in an ocean of watch goodness?

[@mahmoudghoneim8004]

If you are building a collection both have the right to exist side by side, but if you're out buying that one do it all watch I tend to see the charm of GS , you can simply feel happy and satisfied without all the hassle around the Rolex image nowadays, I would definitely take a GS over Omega any day simply because of the clean and consistent design language.

[@EverydayWatchGuy]

A very refreshing take on the GS vs Rolex debate. I appreciate that you focused on what makes GS different (design and accuracy) to most main-stream luxury watches. As always, the B-roll video was stunning :)

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thanks dude! You notice the details 😉👍

[@ivanoschen]

Debate? What debate? Lol

[@diego750]

At this point Rolex is like going for a diesel BMW when you first get a car allowance - yeah it’s the standard choice, and it’ll get you from A to B, but there’s a million of them on the road and there are much nicer options out there.

[@wagz54]

Great video! I think you put it well. Both are different in great ways. I personally like that my gs does not get recognized by people. Secondly, the bracelet on the sbga415 does taper. I just checked with a ruler on mine

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thanks! I'm still learning to appreciate the fine finishing of GS 😁 Yes you are right, it goes down to 18 at the clasp.

[@wagz54]

@@WatchCrunchOfficial I agree! This was my first luxury watch purchase and I’m still enjoying it 1 year later. I’ve found the bracelet to be comfortable most the time. If they upgraded clasp and got some micro adjust, I think I’d have much less complaints. Only half links are challenging lol

[@victorbr234]

If you see someone wearing a Rolex , you have no idea if that person knows anything about watches. If you see someone wearing a grand seiko, its another story.

[@MrPhotographerDude]

Finishing and technology Grand Seiko rules. I wouldn't buy a Rolex, because the hype around that brand and most people who buy Rolex do it for the flex.

[@Iexpedite1]

I feel your interpretation of GS's history is unfair. Grand Seiko is Seiko at its best. It isn’t a company that was cooked up in the 60's. You circle back to say that GS has to carry Seiko's baggage in their sport watch designs. Why? They are either their own company started in the '60s or they are a better Seiko. If they are dragging Seiko's baggage they must be related and therefore they share their history.

[@jeanlefranc3817]

First comment ! Excellent analysis of each brand’s own strength.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Appreciate that Herve!

[@SuperDamny]

I personally don't like logos on watches, and not just on watches. I'd prefer a no-logo watch, and if logo is a must, then let it be Rolex.

[@fieldwalker]

Rolex .. has long and fake waitlists, empty dealer windows and cost several times their retail value (and cost several times as much as a grand Seiko). I don’t think people currently buying Rolex’s are doing it for the love of a 25k tool watch, it’s for bought speculative value or with the primary goal of impressing strangers and showing off. So the types of buyers are completely different. Not many rappers wear GS.

[@eberg8630]

Hey, What strap is your GS on? I have the spring version.

[@stonedog1000]

No love for Seiko Kinetic movement. A self winding mechanism charges a capacitor that drives a quartz oscillator....for 250$. The capacitor stores energy instead of a mainspring; a week or more of reserve. Capacitor lasts 8-10 years; I suggest that a Spring Drive should be serviced more often.Any thoughts?

[@waterfordrs22]

Six months ago I would have agreed with you concerning Spring Drive. That’s still the first thing that comes to mind when I think GS. Problem is, I’m not crazy about the proportions of those watches, they simply don’t resonate for me as maybe they should. After reading and looking, I would consider one of their quartz models, but for myself, it’s their manual wind watches form the Elegance collection that interest me most. That partly comes from developing an interest in slightly smaller watches. They are a bit more reserved, simply better proportions. That doesn’t mean I couldn’t change my mind concerning a Spring drive watch, maybe if I found one at a great price, I’m not sure what it would take, but my mantra has become fit first, if that’s not where I want it, it’s simply something I admire from a distance for what it is and look for those components to resurface elsewhere. Otherwise, I’m buying impulsively.

[@tomscott4438]

We need to stop comparing anything to Rolex. If you want a Rolex, buy a Rolex. If you want a great watch, there are plenty of other brands out there. Grand Seiko is a brand I have been following for years now, and still have no plans to own one. Some nice designs but overall I find them a little boring. But my biggest problem is the prices, especially when you consider the terrible bracelets. Flimsy links, cheap clasps, and with no micro-adjustments. For a brand trying to be premium they are literally the weak link.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

I totally agree Tom, GS is long on craftsmanship but short on the the things you pointed out. But owning one has made me appreciate the former!

[@timelesssneakersandwatches]

Some awesome points bro! Definitely got me thinking. I have to say personally I still enjoy my spring SBGA413 more than I do my Rolex. So, idk.... There is something about GS, Rolex doesn't bring to the table. What that is, I don't know yet but I hope to uncover that it factor soon! Keep killing it bro! Amazing stuff!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

It's definitely a more subtle beauty, your watch is 🔥

[@darylclasen]

I think stating Grand Seiko is from the 80's is highly disingenuous as a slight when comparing to the Rolex. Seiko made their first wristwatch in 1924. Rolex made their first wristwatch in 1929? What was Rolex doing starting in 1905? Seiko.... such history, such cache. What an eye roll when you determine how companies make watches today. But, if I had to guess I'd say more people are involved making a Grand Seiko than a Rolex. You know, more of that handmade craftsman stuff.

[@kingoftampa]

One thing i must point out however. The SBGA415 bracelet does taper. Im wearing a 413 right now and my bracelet is tapered

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Yeah I measured it again and you are right, it goes down to 18 at the clasp. I wish it went to 16ish though. Just find this bracelet uninspired compared to the rest of the watch.

[@watchwanted6580]

Absolutely agree my friend we need both for different reasons 😉👌👍 thanks for fantastic video 🙏

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Cheers my man, had to put in my 2 cents 😉👍

[@thegirthquake8574]

Just started the video and I wanted to get my thoughts out there. GS and Rolex are different companies entirely. GS isn't like Omega or Rolex, they're making art on your wrist. They're not trying to sell products or stick to some swiss heritage. They're just trying to carve their own path. Rolex, Omega and the like are still good watches, but saying "GS IS BETTER THAN ROLEX" a million times in the media is only going to bring the problems we enthusiasts have with Rolex (disturbing prices, scalpers and low availability) to GS. Please, let's just let different companies be different companies.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Great way to frame it. GS uses the dial as a canvas!

[@BrandonMenancio]

Great video with some nice new shots!!! 😎 Anytime I watch a GS video with a title that doesn’t say “GS: Second coming of Jesus Christ!” I immediately get defensive inside hahaha. They got a hold on me man!!!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Haha, dude I thought you were gonna send me hate mail for criticizing your fav brand. This watch has really grown on me (on a strap) 🤣

[@UltraDoug]

Hey, which leather strap is featured in this video? I think it pairs beautifully with the 415. Never mind, did my own research since the last time I watched.

[@jalanc5095]

People only compare Grand Seiko to Rolex, not the other way around. I wonder why? Team GS will say it’s because true watch lovers like GS and Rolex is only bought by fanboys, team Rolex will say it’s because Rolex are better. Then team GS mention zaratsu polishing… team Rolex then point out that zaratsu is just the type of German made machine GS use and the argument continues…