Glashütte Original SeaQ (and the Rolex Submariner)

[@BrettinLux]

Been trying to get the new 41mm Sub since it came out.I paid a deposit at my AD a week after the launch.Since then I’ve been pumped back the list numerous times.I was on an airport wasting time when I went into a Glashutte store.I asked to look at the black diver in the window just out of curiosity.Picking it up you immediately feel the quality.To cut a long story short I walked out 90 minutes later as a very happy customer and the owner of a new SeaQ Panorama Date. I was also given a pretty nice 15% discount on the recommended price. Canceled my Rolex order and don’t think I’ll purchase one again.

[@dandahl5964]

Took an hour and a half to buy it?

[@wengjai]

Took me two for mine. Chatted with the AD got to eat some gourmet snack and bourbon. It’s all about the experience and trying on different watches. Sometimes the watch you intend to buy turns out to be a dud.

[@BrettinLux]

@@dandahl5964 Yes,it’s a pretty big investment so took a while.I went with the saleswoman for a cup of coffee and had a long chat about the watch and the company.The owner allowed me to wear the display model and that really impressed me.Guess there’s nowhere to go On an airport 😀Took the watch back and then sat on the net and looked up any negatives on reviews (fortunately very few).Then went back and pulled the trigger👍

[@mikehoward9912]

@@BrettinLux Congrats. Screw Rolex

[@Moe90rules]

Congratulations, a fantastic choice!

[@LoetzAustria]

I've owned two Subs and a Sea Dweller. All excellent watches in their own right. I just plain got bored with them. Seeing real or fakes on everyones wrist made them feel... less special. Currently the Rolex market is nothing but a bad joke with greed driven pricing for a watch that is simply worth its MSRP but not a cent more. I am an owner of this exact model Seaq and can say, without hesitation that wearing it, looking at it and enjoying ownership has been much more satisfying than any of the Rolex models. Yes, the Seaq is not a watch for flippers or for status seekers. No one will recognize it on your wrist. But damm, it sure makes me smile.

[@mikehoward9912]

Very well said, Sir

[@StefanoMaggio]

Working in a restaurant i see dozens of Rolex a night, very rarely impressive ones but if you came in w your SeaQ, you'd stand out for sure, to me of course, for everyone else you just couldn't afford a Sub! Ahaha

[@sikco]

I liked my reed green 39.5 on grey strap so much I also bought a blue one on a bracelet! Truly an amazing watch and the dial is so interesting. Never get bored of it.

[@Adb07d]

You bought essentially the same watch 3 times over and then you say you're bored of it. Makes sense....

[@rumcoke9123]

well said! I feel great walking into a room where there are 10 Rolexes, and people ask ME what watch I am wearing. Id say 95% of people who wear Rolex have never heard of Glashutte, and I like it that way. The quality is not comparable.

[@claytfoster]

7" - told all my friends. They were impressed. Impressive.

[@YoureTerrific]

Thank you for your service.

[@nishantprakash5928]

Are we still talking about wrist size?

[@claytfoster]

@@nishantprakash5928 Always. This is a family channel.

[@ricopuckett8418]

@@nishantprakash5928 ask your mother

[@forgettmenot]

wait till when it gets hot and swells up

[@petes5152]

Another great one! I own a SeaQ Panorama Date two tone and I think you hit the nail on the head with the GO owner. Already own or owned just about every luxury dive watch available. I still have a neo-vintage Sea Dweller which I will own until I die, but the SeaQ blows everything else out of the water. It's an amazing watch. I just wish they 40mm version had the same movement as the Panorama Date so everyone could enjoy. This is a real watch enthusiast's watch.

[@YoureTerrific]

Exactly. Thanks.

[@Madmanmarque]

I agree. I own quite a few dive watches, including a 16610 I've had for almost 30 years. I purchased a SeaQ Pano in blue with the bracelet. I have 7 5/8" wrist so I'm more suited to the larger size. The movement for the Pano is too large for the smaller version. I got it with an additional GO rubber strap and deployant for $10,000. Plus I was treated with a hat, a wallet and a drink. I will never step foot in a Rolex dealer again!

[@CVYN1337]

The problem i have with all watches, expect Rolex, on steel bracelet is the look/gap from bracelet to case of the watch. This is also the reason why only option for my Seamaster 300M was the rubber. Omega is doing the same …i dont understand why only Rolex is doing the gaps so well (because there is none) With all other Steel bracelet watches the Transition to the case is so bulky…a Rolex looks like one piece and this is so important to me and to the look of the whole thing..imho Does anyone shares this feeling?

[@louisbrandt5386]

Is it the Seamaster Diver 300 or the 300 you refer to as I have a Diver 300 and there are no gaps, a perfect fit?

[@BrittPearceWatches]

I have such a thing for the SeaQ! Oh man, if I had to choose between the two, I'd have no idea what to do! They are both amazing watches.

[@YoureTerrific]

Kinda depends on what you own or have owned, I think.

[@MrLopez2864]

I was between these two watches last year and I had to go with the Sub since it would be my first Rolex

[@steelsteez6118]

Yeah you would. Your heart would tell you to choose the rolex. Let's not kid ourselves lol.

[@Sandbag1300]

@@YoureTerrific I agree. This is a watch you purchase when you want a very vibrant, classy, highly finished watch with an in-house movement but do not want to be flashy. I got the blue with a fully brushed bracelet and wear it on a rubber strap in short sleeves. I was going to wait for the possibility of a black dial with white markers but did not want to take the risk that the blue would not be made again. The company makes only a few hundred of the blue a year. My bet is that in the next few years this 39.5mm watch will be very popular if this product line extends to more traditional colors - black, white, silver dials.

[@PoPo-yv5re]

Sea Q is better than Submariner

[@johnshaw1883]

Thanks for the review. I've got the SeaQ 39.5 in reed green and love it. I was also looking at the Rolex Sub but went for the SeaQ for the following reasons.... 1... My eyes are getting older and the SeaQ's dial is a little bigger because it has a thinner bezel. 2... Numbers on a dial are easier to read in my opinion. If the SeaQ could have had more numbers I'd like that. 3... I wanted to go non Swiss. 4... I liked the idea that he SeaQ is rarer and you are less likely to get robbed for it. If you wear a Rolex Sub, and aren't stepping out of an expensive car or yatch, people can often assume you are wearing a fake. 5... I like the fact you can adjust the bracelet without having to remove the watch. The range of adjustment is only about 8mm though compared to the larger range on the Sub. 6... I like the extra dots on the bezel. Some other points... On your review, you mentioned that the bezel is 60 clicks. It's 120 clicks. The bezel is quite stiff and also has quite sharp edges. The sharpness gives good grip though. The 40 hr power reserve doesn's affect me as I wear the watch every day. Because the watch and bracelet combo is pretty heavy, it gives a real feel of quality. I'm not sure if just the watch head would feel heavy if you removed the bracelet. I'm not qualified to say whether the Rolex movement is better in terms of construction. The movement is the SeaQ is meant to be beautiful though and I would assume for the price that the SeaQ's movement is equal to or perhaps a little better than the Rolex movement. I do find it odd that people complain that the SeaQ doesn't have a glass back, but never complain that the Sub doesn't have a glass back. I think people also assume that the longer guarantee and service intervals on the Rolex and the fact that they quote the -2s/+2s accuracy means it is a better movement. In terms of accuracy, I think it's a shame that Glashutte can't state more accurate figures other than -4s/+6s per day as I know they put a lot of work into testing and setting up the watch. I was a bit worried about this before purchasing the watch and thought .. "well, if my watch is +6 secs per day, I'll just have to put up with it". I was pleasantly surprised though. I've just tested my watch accuracy over the last 7 days and it's gained just 3 seconds. Spare parts? I imagine you could still get a new Rolex dial and hands if you needed to in say 30 years, but whether the same applies to the seaQ I couldn't say. I didn't get the blue dial because I thought it may look a bit 'blingy'. In the AD, I compared the blue next to the green and the blue had a lot more reflections on the dial which messed with me a bit. I think this was probably because of the 50,000 spotlights that they have in an AD. I have heard though, that the blue looks less dazzly in normal lighting. For some reason, my eyes could see the green dial better. They say that the colour the human eye can see the most shades of is green, hence using green for night vision stuff. The green is such an interesting colour in that it can look really light and vibrant in bright sunlight, then British racing green in normal light, and finally.. almost black or dark grey in other lights. I've never had a watch that has such an interesting range of colours on the dial. One other thing.. on some reviews you can see a massive sharp picture of the green dial and it can look like the dial surface is a bit speckly. I reality, you don't see this. Another thing I love about the dial is that there is very little writing on it - very classy. I wasn't sure about the arrow on the minute hand. I can see why it's like that though - if you were diving you would just want to see that hand in relation to the dial to see how long you have been down for. I have actually done a lot of scuba diving in my younger days before the advent of dive computers. If it didn't have the arrow, I think it would look just as nice and perhaps appeal to more people. One thing I love with the shiny metal around the numerals and hands is that when you are in fairly dull indoor lighting, the shiny metal can pick up the reflections of a white ceiling and then all of sudden, the hands and numerals appear to be double the size and change to a pure white colour that really stands out. Sometimes if you look at the watch square on, all you see is the shiny metal outlines and the lume in the middle seems to go darker. The watch dial really has a lot of unique looks. I didn't know if I'd like the domed crystal as I could see distorted dial numbers in the photos on most reviews. However, in normal use, you don't see the distortions unless you have the watch at quite an angle. When you tilt the watch to see what time it is, all the numbers look fine. If you have the watch at an angle (whilst say typing on a keyboard), then you see distortions, but the distortions actually look lovely and again, give the watch a really nice personality. I also often find my self just feeling the domed crystal with my fingers ( I'm not a perv - lol ) and it just feels so nice the way it rises above the bezel and the smoothness of the crystal edge compared to the roughness of the bevel edge. I don't agree with the reviewer saying that the bracelet is awkward to adjust. Firstly the screws are on the underside of the bracelet so you don't see them. I just got a cheap jewellers screwdriver set and adjusted the links myself. All the slot head screws are spring loaded. You just push them in with the screwdriver, then turn the screw 90 degrees. After doing both link screws, the link end cap just pops off. After adjustment, you turn the slot head screw 90 degrees the other way and it just spings back up into the locked position. It's an ingenious design and I think it's a safer design. There is no way any of the link screws can come undone. And even if one did come undone, you'd need the one next to it to also come undone for a link end to fall out. If one screw were to loosen up and come out on the Sub's bracelet, you could lose the watch. I managed to get a good deal on my new SeaQ. I know it won't hold it's value like a Rolex currently does, but that doesn't bother me as I'm not a collector and don't flip watches. This is my daily watch and should remain so for many years to come. I somebody offered me a brand new Sub as a swop for my SeaQ would I take it? Definitely not... I may have been tempted before the SeaQ arrived, but after wearing the SeaQ for just a couple of days and seeing how beautiful it is and how many different looks the watch can offer , I wouldn't want to part with it.

[@Portland_Living_Life]

The bracelet adjustment comment came from my feedback. The IWC bracelet (very similar) just has push buttons and IWC provides the tool - it's easy. GO complicated things by requiring the push and turn screws and then further complicated things by not providing the tool. I had to use a sharpening stone to hone down a screw driver to make it small enough to fit. I then had two of these "screws" that would not pop back out, getting hung up on the sides. I fiddled with that bracelet for a good 30+ minutes to get it re-sized. The Rolex took me maybe a minute or two to re-size, by comparison.

[@scott9739]

Perfect reply, I own both and you said everything I was thinking. I do also wish there was a 39.5 in black that was not vintage style.

[@Portland_Living_Life]

@@scott9739 YES!!! I would have loved this watch in black, sunray dial, applied indices. In fact, I wanted this watch when GO first released it, but blue was not my first choice. I held out for a couple of years hoping they would give the dial this premium treatment in black. I gave up and just bought the blue this month. No regrets though as the blue is a lot more striking and beautiful in the flesh and changes to black in the right lighting any way.

[@johnshaw1883]

@@Portland_Living_Life .... Yes, I adjusted the bracelet myself and had to use a bit of sandpaper to get the end of a small cheap jeweller screwdriver thin enough.. I didn't seem to have a problem with the screws popping up though except you sometimes have to wiggle the screw head a bit if it doesn't pop up straight away. You're right though - it does take a bit longer and GO SHOULD provide a tool!

[@dangerpowers5939]

@@Portland_Living_Life Had zero problems with sizing the bracelet. just used a small screwdriver. Sold my no-date 41m sub for both the black and blue seaq 39mm on bracelets and some money over. Probably my best watch deal ever.

[@michaelscott7498]

the Glasshuette is like a Maybach and Rolex Submariner is like a E-class

[@YoureTerrific]

Are those types of shoes?

[@sensational_cellar8606]

@@YoureTerrific they’re caravans, aren’t they?

[@YoureTerrific]

We'll never know.

[@pedromonteiro2644]

Why do you say that? I´d rather own the submariner

[@bani_niba]

The GO is like Maybach. Rolex is more like Lexus.

[@Spitt102]

I think Glashütte Originals are a little bit like Grand Seikos, there's just a little extra something about them that makes them stand out from the rest. Nearly bought a Panomaticlunar on Mykonos a few years ago, an absolutely amazing watch! It would be cool if you could get a loan of one for a video. Keep up the great work. S

[@triniboy05]

I think the comparisons continue though where everyone compliments Grand Seiko but few go out of their way to purchase/keep them.

[@Spitt102]

@@triniboy05You're probably right but I finally did go out and buy a GS Skyflake a few months ago and I'm definitely keeping it. It's spectacular in real life. Not going anywhere.

[@triniboy05]

@@Spitt102 that’s great to hear, congrats! How do you like it so far?

[@TheOriginalLiao]

They’re also both made by the WWII bad guys

[@jamespalsson746]

Every watch-KZbinr loves GO, they usually mention they're better than Rolex. But they end up with Rolex on the wrists anyways.

[@nolanreed7090]

Hey, man. I just wanted to say this has become my favorite KZbin channel, period. It's the only one where I'm excited to watch every video and don't skip over the ones with topics that don't interest me. I appreciate you putting this stuff out there for us

[@YoureTerrific]

Thanks so much for saying that. It means a lot to know people enjoy these.

[@dandahl5964]

@@YoureTerrific love the little quick hitter jokes as well! And the crisp clear video is awesome!

[@bradhepditch7605]

Totally agree!

[@RedwoodAggie]

I was really impressed with the SeaQ when I saw them in person, which is not something I can say about all the watches with some other major luxury brands. 2 things I'd like to see on this smaller iteration is 1) a higher power reserve (55-70hrs). No need for 100, but more than what watches got 40 years ago 2) A display caseback. #1 would be the bigger priority for me. Thanks for an amazing review, as always.

[@Wootguy238]

This is my problem as well. My 30th is coming up and I want a blue dial SeaQ Pano Date, but my wrist is only 6.25" and that lug to lug is just too much for me. Sigh.

[@jb678901]

Exhibition case-backs on diver watches are usually avoided, especially on watches properly rated below 150M. That being said, G.O. movements are a real pleasure to look at. I own a Senator Moon Phase Power Reserve 39-44-03-11-04 and would really miss it's exhibition case-back.

[@JimLecinski]

Great video as always. For those who love the look of this SeaQ but are on a beer budget, there's always Le Forban's "Brestoise" diver for 500 bucks!

[@alectang1614]

Yes, the clasp is made by Brogioli SA in Switzerland. They also make it for the Lange Odysseus. Probably the best clasp in the industry. So it seems suppliers are not restricted to certain groups as Glashutte Original is owned by Swatch and IWC and Lange are Richemont.

[@YoureTerrific]

This is great info! Thanks for sharing. Really good to see Brogioli selling to any group.

[@Portland_Living_Life]

That kind of kills GO's claim to being 95% in-house though... I guess that's only on some models and not the SeaQ. Doesn't matter to me as I have this clasp on the IWC and GO and agree with YT that it doesn't get any better than this. Especially when considering the clasp thinness compared to the Omega and Rolex options.

[@alectang1614]

@@Portland_Living_Life the more you learn the more you realise this whole industry is just a big facade when it comes to 'in-house' - no company is entirely in-house, not even Rolex. Lange cases are made by Sinn, Oris clasps and bracelets are made in China, JLC bracelets aren't made in Switzerland, Tudor's in-house movement for the BB 58 is made by a third party, IWCs new in-house movement is made by Richemont's movement manufacturer, Valfleurier etc etc. But I don't care though, I still love the hobby. In-house is meaningless to me for these reasons though.

[@johnnyguitar6697]

@@Portland_Living_Life I'm pretty sure it must be close to what they claim overall for the brand, but bracelets would be the exception as they do very few models on metal bracelets, so it makes sense for them to outsource this part. They would never have the volumes necessary to amortize the machinery required to manufacture them. Same for Lange.

[@johnnyguitar6697]

Great information. I was wondering about that, seeing that the adjustment mechanism looked identical to that of the Odysseus.

[@Not_Mark_Twain]

Another fine review (and I own them both). Thanks. Some quick thoughts about the biggest misgivings expressed here: the polished center links, solid case back, 60 click bezel, and the 40 hour power reserve. -- Glashutte got rid of the polished center links. The new models have brushed centers and look much better IMO. It's a diver and doesn't need the bling. -- The solid case back makes the watch thinner. Its panorama date big brother is a real puck (a gorgeous puck, to be sure). I understand wanting to see the movement, but Rolex/Tudor manage without exhibiting their movements. Personally, I'll survive without it. -- I'm pretty sure that both watches have 120 click bezels. -- 40 hour PR is a bit annoying, but it doesn't matter if you wear the watch daily. And if you rotate it like I do, the difference between 40 hours and say 70 hours doesn't usually matter. The watch you wear has stopped, so you are going to wind and set it regardless. So 40 hours is a limitation only if you aspire to always wear the watch every third day. If I could change one thing about this watch: I'd either use the panora 10:51 mic date window or lose the date altogether like the Sub and Black Bay do.

[@heho7683]

Never wanted a Submariner. Wanted a SeaQ from the moment I first saw it. GO's mistake is that they released both the SeaQ and the SeaQ Panorama Date. The Panorama Date shows what features the smaller version is lacking. And the smaller SeaQ shows that the Panorama Date is too big. In my mind, I now have a picture of a hybrid between the two, one that will probably never exist.

[@mattwindsor6196]

Great comment on the 2 SEAQ’s

[@btmontres1423]

Yes! I love this watch and this review is well worth the wait. I love the solid case back, it's a work of art and the photos with the swan's neck fine regulation is beautiful. The arabics in steel filled lume, the depth of the gradient blue dial, and overall vintage aesthetic are the bombe. And thanks to Kirk too for sending it your way...you are going to return it right?

[@marctravismba]

This video absolutely speaks to me. I own both, and as you had mentioned about having gone through other brands and wanted something new...yep - that's me. Seamaster, BB/BB58, Superocean, Aquatimer. Yep, been there, done that. These two are definitely very different watches, and even though the specs are somewhat similar, they fit very differently. When I picked up the SeaQ, I wanted something different - something a little more refined that sits well on the wrist, and that is where GO did a bang up job. The SeaQ fits my 6.75" wrist like a glove (better than any diver I've owned, including the BB58) and is currently my most worn diver. It's not perfect, though. I'd prefer an open caseback and longer power reserve, and I'm not a huge fan of polished center links, but it's a great watch and I don't plan on giving up on it any time soon. Well done.

[@zynetik]

If I had the money I'd go for the SeaQ or the SeaQ Panorama date over the Submariner hands down. Better movement, aesthetics and finishing for similar money and I kinda like German watchmaking better than Swiss one. I must admit that I do like the no-date sub but you can get similar watches for way less money (Black Bay huh?)

[@davidfowler2691]

I've been considering this watch (and its bigger brother) for awhile now - love the case design, the use of Arabic numerals on a diver, & the micro-adjust on the bracelet. I kind of see this as similar to the Mark XVIII. Just like the SeaQ, many dismiss it as overpriced, sporting an "inferior" movement, and having poor power reserve. I recently purchased the Mark XVIII on a bracelet and it's quickly become a favorite (amongst pieces like the new no-date Sub, ADLC Santos, 3861 Speedy etc.). The bracelet is beautiful and provides an absolutely perfect fit (I prefer it over the Sub's adjustment system), the dial is simple but incredibly legible, the design is spot on (imo), and, as such, the negatives just shrink into the background. It's not a great watch on paper, but it IS a great watch on my wrist. So too, I think, with the SeaQ - not the specs I'd dream of, but a perfectly fitting watch with unique and well executed design elements can quickly become the one you reach for over anything else - tech. specs be damned.

[@PocketWatchTime]

Appreciated the review and your candor when talking about the subjective pricing.

[@YoureTerrific]

It's all subjective! All of it!

[@Mike-r7m2m]

No contest. G.O. for the win.

[@stockholmpublishings2937]

bro, borring is what makes Rolex and the Submariner timeless. there is a difference with a watch being interesting and ugly.

[@ozzy1154]

True but I wouldn’t call the GO “ugly.”

[@YoureTerrific]

I think Rolex used to be a little more experimental with their designs. A lot more dial variations in the past.

[@stockholmpublishings2937]

@@YoureTerrific they are coming out with way more variations these days then 20 years ago.

[@davemcc7713]

I find that the Sub feels much larger on my wrist than the SeaQ, more different than one might expect from reading the specs. The BB58 is a better comparison although the finish on the SeaQ makes the BB58 feel like a farm implement in comparison.

[@thachnguyen5836]

Me too. My 124060 is hanging over my wrist. Even I like the look of it a lot but I can't ignore the fact that it doesn't look nice when I put it on ;(

[@hambone988ubet]

Agree. I just picked up the BB58 925 last weekend and it would be a closer comparison. The BB58 is extremely comfortable based on the dimensions which are similar to the SEAQ. I also agree the finish of the BB58 is a bit rough (literally), but not off putting. Finally, I own a GO Panoluner and the cost and quality is top level. From the other comments, AD’s are willing to give a pretty healthy discount…I was able to bet 20% off of the Pano which gets the cost to around $8K which seems like an appropriate price to pay for the quality of the watch. Try that with a Sub!

[@JorgeSantos-pn5ji]

You have no idea boy! Glashute is by far better than Rolex.

[@scene.objects]

I think the most significant thing you said is that this is the watch you turn to after owning some of the heavy weights. I actually was cross shopping the SeaQ Panorama Date and a no date Submariner, not knowing if my time on the waitlist would ever come to fruition. I loved the SeaQ but how do I turn down my first Rolex at retail? I bought the Sub, I like it, but my fondness for the GO hasn’t gone away. Had I already owned a Rolex, I think I would have bought this for sure. The lack of a case back, a ubiquitous date, and a poor power reserve (and a the water resistance, of course 😉) makes this version less appealing, but I still love the overall design. Great video!

[@lonewolfemcquade8133]

If the Glashutte original had a no date version I be all over it

[@joytekb]

Rolex here is like Timex class in comparison

[@Udansha]

exactly, the regulars know nothing about watches, they only know Rolex. The GO is one bad ass German made watch

[@larsstougaard7097]

I want to see comparison between the omega moon watch and the new omega x swatch moon watch 😁

[@YoureTerrific]

If I can ever get my hands on one, I'll do it.

[@larsstougaard7097]

@@YoureTerrific great let hope, time will tell 👍

[@andy9189]

I own this watch so obviously I'm biased in thinking its one of the best watches in the market. You rightfully highlighted the micro-adjust of the bracelet, but the other thing that I think makes it leading class is the lack of a bulky clasp. If you still have the watch, take your calipers to both the outer and inner clasp, and I challenge you to find a shorter clasp that also has micro-adjust. If you look on the underside of bracelet, near the micro adjust, you will see three lettters: BRO. This bracelet is made by a company named Brogioli. I wish more watch brands would use them, but so far I only know of IWC, Moser, and Lange using them. The polished centre links can turn off some people from the bracelet, as does the lack of a taper, but in my opinion, this is one of the best bracelets in the industry in terms of function and size.

[@johnnyguitar6697]

I too own the SeaQ (in Reed green), but opted to get it without the bracelet. I love the clasp and its micro-adjustment mechanism, but find the end link awkward, and the polished center link / insufficient taper not in tune with the spirit of the watch. I got it on the grey fabric strap, which I have swapped for a grey Tropic style from Joseph Bonnie. Extremely comfortable, and the style matches it very well.

[@williamcoolidge9884]

Great video. It's a very nice watch but in no way is it worth $10k (to me anyway). If it was priced like an Omega I might have interest. However, not a fan of the lack of a nice taper in the bracelet width and the polished/brushed center link combo is weird. I would brush out the bracelet center links if I owned this watch.

[@nickrice7535]

I've been watching the SeaQ for awhile now. Keep thinking I need to add it to the collection. The black version speaks to me.

[@jb678901]

I think the Glashutte SeaQ is one of the most beautiful homages on the market, with tribute to the French Navy diver watches from the 1960's (e.g. Le Forban Sécurité Mer). I chose the Seestern S435, with high beat (28800bph) ST2130 movement and S.S. bracelet (with glide lock clasp), for US$200. Clearly, the movement cannot compare with G.O.'s magnificent in house movement. However, the fit/finish/materials in the S435 are stunning at its price point.

[@Nuclear__HS]

Ah the Louis Erard again... I still hate how much I like it.

[@YoureTerrific]

And I still like how much I like it.

[@daviddigilio3036]

Currently cross-shopping this and the new Mark XX on bracelet. Mainly because of size, that cool clasp that is shared by both watches, and the beautiful blue dials. I can get the SeaQ for about 30% off. Much smaller discount for the IWC. Having a very hard time deciding which I like more.

[@th_and]

I'm cross shopping between these two too 😂 which one did you go for in the end?

[@jamesd4695]

“The Sea Q, on the other wrist” 😂

[@YoureTerrific]

Thanks

[@saodavi6267]

If they could put that big date into the smaller package, that would be a winner. And ... I can't say I'm crazy about those end-links; very awkward looking.

[@SinnerAndSaint]

Greatness, again! I think the SeaQ is priced perfectly. It says 'Hey, this is NOT a sub-par Rolex - we're on that level!'. I think it's important for a brand with quite a luxurious claim to position your products right in the market. And imho Glashütte Original did. And don't forget: If you're comparing REAL market price, things look a whole different. Even if you're able to get a Sub for retail - the SeaQ can be found for considerably less! And if you then compare these two watches again the reality is that you will get a more unique and better finished dive watch for a lot less money. If this is want you want is written on another paper.

[@jmb823]

Great video, I just got the green version of the SeaQ. Its beautiful and amazing.

[@YoureTerrific]

Oh wow, congrats.

[@jonirwin7316]

Worth every cent.

[@dominicrusho]

If you like the look of this and want an affordable alternative, the Wolbrook Skindiver Automatic is nearly identical for around £350.

[@marcuscasey514]

I'm wearing my "affordable" alternative now--the blue sunray Longines Hydroconquest. Unbelievable quality for the money. I got one on the gray-market for $1125.

[@lightningleaf23]

Love the seaq but a 40 hour power reserve is poor at that price point. That will need updating

[@umutaydogdu1502]

Of course Glashütte👌 No question about it!

[@YoureTerrific]

For you

[@patrick7228]

One of the most underrated dive watches out there in my opinion that people seem to finally be taking notice of.

[@julianread1996]

Excellent video! About all they have in common is they are both dive watches. Glashutte Original is on another level with its rarity, hand finishing (case, dial and movement) the attention and level of detailing is exquisite. The Rolex movement, dial and case is machine finished and is a mass produced watch. Glashutte Original is one of Germany’s finest watchmakers and a cut above Rolex and even Grand Seiko. Rolex has high demand due to its marketing and hype which is why it has such a high price tag. Chalk and cheese really.

[@thachometer]

Thank you Kirk. And thank you Evan, for making videos so enjoyable I view them all, irregardless of the watch. (Apologies for using irregardless)

[@YoureTerrific]

Regardless of your word choice, I appreciate the sentiment.

[@hobokenarts]

Buy a blue CW C60 and call it a day with $9,000 left in your pocket. Your video style is great and I’ll probably keep on watching ‘til the day I die trying to find a better watch.

[@BradyPuryear]

I feel like I fall in a 3rd persona. Never owned any luxury divers but to me the Sub just feels like the Apple Watch of luxury time pieces. I see them on random wrists on a daily basis and they don’t feel special to me. I tried on the Grey/Rose Gold PanoDate SeaQ a few weeks ago and was blown away. I’d pick this up before anything else from the larger Swiss brands if I end up going for a luxury diver.

[@dillonm4794]

Fantastic video as always. But man, $10K for a watch with a 40 hour power reserve just doesn’t do it anymore. I really do like the watch, but I’m not entirely sure I wouldn’t take a Seamaster over it…and it’s half the price. Not sure if that’s a reflection on the GO or just how good the modern Seamaster is.

[@johnnyguitar6697]

The Seamaster is a fantastic watch in its own right, which is better technically, but it's an industrial product. The real competition for the GO SeaQ would be a JLC Polaris of a Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, as they can all be considered as a foray in haute horlogerie from a finishing standpoint.

[@racebannon2332]

I own the new Rolex 41 Sub (no date as I’m not a fan of the cyclops) as well as the 116600 & 16600 Sea Dweller. All great timepieces. I picked up a used SeaQ on blk rubber for 6K. Absolutely love it. Wears similar to the 16600 but unique. The movement is good, albeit not as robust or accurate as the aforementioned Rolex. It goes unnoticed…except for me… If you’re looking to purchase a SeaQ I suggest the used market, great deals available on this remarkable timepiece

[@Madmanmarque]

My SeaQ Pano is more accurate than my Rolex and it's got a great reputation for robustness.

[@racebannon2332]

@@Madmanmarque terrific Madwoman…the movement referenced was for the 39.5mm SeaQ which is inferior to the new Rolex 3230. Lol

[@Madmanmarque]

@@racebannon2332 terrific Bandit. I also own the previous Sport Evolution and it has the older architecture. I've owned it for 12 years and it too has proven to be very accurate and robust.

[@hestrada3463]

The clasp is also used by H Moser (pioneer Bracelet) and A.Lange Odysseus ;)

[@enriqueali]

The only caveat I have with this 39.5mm diameter model is its less-than-impressive 40-hour power reserve. With the likes of lesser priced models from Tudor offering up to 70 hours, GO really needs to step up their game in this department. Otherwise two solid 👍 👍 from me!!

[@jlg395]

The best part about this watch is the solid caseback.

[@Portland_Living_Life]

The caseback is actually decent. It's two pieces. The inner section has two cut-outs that are indexed to the case so that when you screw the caseback on this center section always stays perfectly aligned. The o-ring seal is on this inner/center section. The outer section is just a threaded ring to hold the inner part of the case in place.

[@JunoW712]

As a German I must say, very good pronunciation of the word Glashütte. Usually the English reviewers butcher that name like crazy :) Review was stunning as usual!

[@YoureTerrific]

Vielen Dank!

[@racebannon2332]

German have a history of butchering more than words…

[@bradhepditch7605]

I have been thru all the big hitters also, I have settled on for now...ha, on the JLC Polaris Mariner date. It's a beautiful timepiece. But now you have peaked my interest.

[@YoureTerrific]

That’s a beautiful watch.

[@bradhepditch7605]

@@YoureTerrific Thank you

[@SoulimanBeshoy]

More than anything else in your entire channel, I enjoy your scripts....and damn how funny and sarcastic they are! you're good!

[@legathm]

I have both of them and I prefer the Sub (126610) which I bought for retail at the AD, and I am definitely not a Rolex Fanboy. But in the 43mm category I would prefer the Panoramadatum over the Sea Dweller.

[@AZadeh-nd8vx]

I tried the Glashutte SeaQ 43mm on today in Dubai and was super excited...seriously disappointed! The bracelet is awful - no taper, way too thick and felt cheap. The watch itself is way too big and thick. The bezel action as well is one of the worst I've ever felt on ANY dive watch. Worse than a seiko or Omega and nowhere near as nice as a Rolex or Tudor bezel. Really don't get the fuss and there is NO WAY I'd pick this over a Sub.

[@joeschlicht]

I love everything about the SeaQ. Perfect sizing and proportions (not that I've tried it on, but I know what works). If I had a minor complaint... I'd like to see a little more taper in the bracelet. This might be my next dive watch, not likely my next watch, but probably my next dive watch. I'll skip the Sub and go straight for this.

[@Brajin1]

Great video!! These watches are amazing. I think this brand will be growing in their presence. Can you add a 50 fathoms to your list of nest watches to review.

[@Ofenlicht]

Brilliant presentation as always! Those movement shots really surprised me and not in a good way. In my opinion that's a lot of bare media blasted real-estate. The 313x and 323x from Rolex are more nicely finished throughout.

[@andrewyoung5126]

As a brand, I love GO way more than Rolex. I do think that they make much better statement and dressier pieces though. I'm not convinced with the GO in the dive watch arena. Either way, if I were to buy another dive watch, I'd save myself some money and get a Seamaster.

[@johnm5131]

Turn it around and the question should be: "why does the Rolex Sub cost $10,000?" ....I'm not sure why. Their movements have little finishing, the design is like every other rolex, and are the ultimate showy 'brand' watch. Years ago I said to a dealer: "Rolex', the watch no one can get, yet everyone has". Not bad for a company that makes 750,000 watches each year... I have a few and except for an original Anniversary Sub model, none of them get worn. My SeaQ stands on it's own without all of the rolex branding. It is unique and the finishing of both case and movement are superior to the Rolex. I achieve similar rate results at +1 sec/day. Also, the lume lasts a full 12 hours, as a proper sports watch should. Better still is that I can get a SeaQ tomorrow and get a 20% discount like the old days. If you want your Rolex, get ready to be soaked by a Flipper.

[@Adb07d]

Don't you think there's a reason your getting 20% off? Or maybe GO just likes making less money.

[@johnm5131]

@@Adb07d the dealer loses the 20%, not GO. Ironically tho, am wearing a Rolex Ceramic GMT today and took off my GO this morning! LOL!

[@underachievingwatchcollect1878]

Being in the Underworld of the watch underbelly can be a scary place 😎!

[@YoureTerrific]

Often

[@DodyChai]

A Blancpain Fifty Fathoms is also a good alternative.

[@buckethead84]

Bracelet looks like something you'd find on a $1k Seiko, with the exception of the clasp.

[@paulbonaventura4969]

While I have no desire to own that watch (but the no date sub is a nice watch I could enjoy)... I watched strictly for the content, quality of the video, no nonsense approach with the true sarcasm of this watch industry. Now, if you will please review the newest Tag Heuer 300M professional dive watches (the one with octagonal hour markers and the date magnifier inside the crystal), please and Thank you.

[@YoureTerrific]

I did one: The Night Diver

[@paulbonaventura4969]

@@YoureTerrific Oh man that's right! I totally forgot! Sorry.

[@luckygoldpanda]

I think your humor hit a new level with this video and I loved it

[@YoureTerrific]

Thanks

[@tomthompson7400]

The Glashutte needs pointy crown guards ,,, its that simple.

[@EscapePlan97]

I can’t put in words how much better the submariner looks. Sorry seaQ.

[@mateuszmrowiec4265]

Fantastic review! Thank you for effort!

[@danielb8877]

I am one deciding between the two - they are competitors and similar on so many levels. The SeaQ to me looks much better.

[@tiempodesobrahn]

there is something about the aesthetics of the sea q that put me off... the busy dial with numbers, the non tapering bracelet and the shiny links, the ultra slim bezel it's just not for me but hey congrats to those who do like it.

[@pete6705]

Damn I really like it, I just hate that it’s 10k. If that’s around 6k I am all over it

[@jeffee1933]

I like how GO decided not to print the user manual on the dial.

[@goranstanisavljevic5634]

What about JLC Polaris Memovox?

[@tendrams]

People are not REALLY willing to pay $10,200 for the GO. In reality, I would bet most sell for 15% less (at least) on the grey market. Of course, most Subs sell for a good bit more than MSRP. Even at the same price, I'd take the GO. Great value at grey market pricing.

[@johnnyguitar6697]

@Daniel Brice I agree. I'll take all of those 4 and 5 digits Rolex from your hands at a heavy discount, seeing that they're all at 40-45 hours power reserve.

[@johnnyguitar6697]

@Daniel Brice Until 5-7 years ago, most of them had 45 hours power reserve, and this was a long time past the 80's. Accuracy guarantee is mostly a marketing gimmick, seeing that GO does spend significant time adjusting their movement to specs superior than COSC. As for Rolex "guarantee" of +/-2 secs, the Datejust 126200 I bought 3 years ago has consistently been at +4 secs / day since I bought it.

[@johnnyguitar6697]

@Daniel Brice And wait for several weeks / months for Rolex to service it given the backlog they have in most SC's? No, thanks. For me, a mechanical watch that stays within +/-5 secs per day is perfectly fine. If I wanted absolute precision, I'd get a quartz or digital watch. My GO runs consistently at -2 secs / day, so doesn't need to be serviced. And it is more accurate than my DJ.

[@johnshaw1883]

@Daniel Brice I've been quite lucky with my 3 week old 39.5mm Seaq. I did an 8 day test and it gained 2.9 secs which is 0.3625 secs per day. That's wearing it day and night.

[@johnnyguitar6697]

@Daniel Brice Got mine for slightly less than $7k. 30% off list in my country.

[@Gnomeshoes91]

Earliest I've ever been! Big fan of your work Evan.

[@YoureTerrific]

Thanks so much, Nick.

[@shamunahmed7587]

60 click for a 10k watch!! Nope

[@mpeters4731]

You're technically getting a bit of Soviet/GDR engineering inside of this luxury watch, which is a lovely bit of irony.

[@YoureTerrific]

Very true

[@johnnyguitar6697]

Technically, the caliber 39 was developed after 1994, so not really in the Soviet era anymore.

[@mpeters4731]

@@johnnyguitar6697 Actually the caliber 11-26 (on which the 39 is based) was introduced in 1978.

[@johnnyguitar6697]

@@mpeters4731 Comparing the 11-26 to the 39-13 is a bit like comparing the engine of a 1970's Toyota Corolla to that of a 2020's Lexus. One could argue that it's an evolution, but at this stage so many components have been changed that it's virtually unrecognizable, not to mention the drastically different degree of finishing.

[@mpeters4731]

@@johnnyguitar6697 That's kinda like saying the new Omega caliber 3861 is not related to the Lemania 2310, sure every component has been changed but the underlying architecture and features are still mostly the same.

[@stevel4439]

Too bad it does not have a display back as the movement looks great

[@jdiluigi]

Hey Kurt. Thanks for sharing from your collection again.

[@YoureTerrific]

*Kirk

[@k_viss]

Now I'm considering trading my panodate version for this cause it looks so incredible on your wrist. I really wish they'd merge the two and come out with a 41'' panodate with open caseback. Also surprised you weren't a fan of the GO bracelet sizing system. I much prefer their way in every way possible over screws and pins.

[@agill2103]

Excellent lookin watch...

[@mitchmazerolle3168]

It costs $10k because....suck it, Rolex!

[@joelhenderson4450]

SeaQ isn’t pronounced “seek”?

[@chrisdonker4771]

Late to the party. You sir, are sooooo refreshing.

[@winstonthecuttlefish5352]

I just can't stand the end links on the SeaQ, look so odd.

[@fire_watch7735]

Great review as always! Cheers

[@vincenthaller638]

thank you kirk

[@YoureTerrific]

What? I don't also get a "thank you"? Kidding. Thanks, Kirk.

[@georgealex4790]

Where can you get this online ?

[@szabolcsszilagyi729]

Seaq...there is no question❤

[@elshazlio]

Thanks for the cool article

[@YouTubeComments]

SeaQ all day

[@ryanjofre]

Thanks Kirk. 👍&sub’d

[@michaelmaguire9330]

It’s the thinking-man’s watch…

[@joelhenderson4450]

Stop saying “point fifteen”!!!

[@ahamilton1305]

Great video man, funny too

[@smashburger65]

"I said good day, sir" 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@EverydayWatchGuy]

The GO SeaQ is my grail dive watch. I think I'd opt for the panoramic date (43mm diver) for my 19cm wrist though. Cheers from Canada :)

[@69opsman]

I got the Pano in October while visiting my Rolex dealer. I saws the blue color and tried it on and my wife could even see the difference in quality between my Sub and the GO. it's been on my wrist all but 8 days since. 1 day for the Sub, 2 days for the Reverso, 3 days for the Speedy, and 2 for the Seamaster.

[@franciscovizcaino4869]

More comparisons like these!

[@YoureTerrific]

Like what?

[@cod-nx2sd]

@@YoureTerrific like seiko highend divers sla037 62mas

[@thachnguyen5836]

@@cod-nx2sd one upvote from me mate @YoureTerrific

[@thachnguyen5836]

@@YoureTerrific one upvote from me